Nestled in the picturesque village of Mougins, near the glamorous city of Cannes in the South of France, an artistic tribute to the legendary French chef Roger Vergé graces the Place Roger Vergé. This impressive sculpture, created by renowned portrait artist Peter Engels, stands as a permanent homage to a culinary genius whose influence continues to resonate globally.
The Legacy of Roger Vergé: A Pioneer of Nouvelle Cuisine
Roger Vergé, a five-time Michelin star chef, was a pioneering force in the world of gastronomy. Alongside his famous friends, Paul Bocuse and Gaston Lenôtre, Vergé was a leading figure in the development of “nouvelle cuisine”—a culinary movement characterized by lighter, healthier dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Vergé’s philosophy of cooking was encapsulated in what he called “La Cuisine du Soleil” (The Cuisine of the Sun) and “La Cuisine Heureuse” (The Happy Cuisine), reflecting the joy and vibrancy of his dishes.
At his restaurants, “Le Moulin de Mougins” and later “l’Amandier,” Vergé crafted meals that were not only delicious but also visually stunning, focusing on simplicity and the natural flavors of the ingredients. His culinary talents attracted a host of celebrities, including Michael Douglas, Sylvester Stallone, and John Travolta, who often escaped the bustle of the Cannes Film Festival to dine in the tranquil setting of Mougins.
Peter Engels’ Tribute: A Sculptural Masterpiece
In June 2015, the culinary world mourned the loss of Roger Vergé. To honor his legacy, Peter Engels was commissioned to create a large sculpture of the celebrated chef. The large sculpture crafted in rusty corten steel, now permanently displayed at Place Roger Vergé, stands directly opposite his former restaurant, l’Amandier. This location serves as a fitting backdrop, connecting the artwork with the place where Vergé made history.
Peter Engels, known for his expressive portraits, shared that Roger Vergé would have been delighted by this tribute. Denise Vergé, the late chef’s wife, was deeply moved by the sculpture, which now holds a place of honor in the heart of Mougins.
The Sculpture’s Role in Les Etoiles de Mougins Festival
The unveiling of the sculpture coincided with the international culinary festival “Les Etoiles de Mougins,” a prestigious event that attracts top chefs from around the world. In addition to the large sculpture, Peter Engels also created a miniature version, which is awarded to the winner of the international chef competition associated with the festival. During the event, visitors had the unique opportunity to watch Engels paint a live portrait of Roger Vergé at the base of the sculpture. This painting, part of the artist’s collection, remains available and serves as another lasting tribute to the chef’s enduring legacy.
Mougins: A Culinary and Artistic Haven
Mougins, already famous for its rich artistic heritage and its connection to world-renowned figures like Pablo Picasso, has further solidified its status as a cultural destination with the addition of the Roger Vergé sculpture. The village, with its narrow streets and stunning views of the French Riviera, offers a perfect setting for both food and art enthusiasts to explore the legacy of one of France’s greatest chefs.
Whether you’re a fan of fine dining, art, or simply wish to experience a piece of culinary history, a visit to Place Roger Vergé in Mougins is a must. Here, the worlds of art and gastronomy beautifully intertwine, offering a glimpse into the life and legacy of Roger Vergé, brought to life through the masterful work of Peter Engels.