Sundays at the Chateau: THE GENIUS OF FORTUNY

In this week's Sundays at the Chateau I explore the genius of Mariano Fortuny, best known as the creator of the iconic Delphos gown, whose sumptuous fabrics evoke the mystery and romance of Venice...
To see more of Michael’s beautiful photos, check out his Instagram / michael_potts_photography
You can purchase his photos to download for yourself from his website shop.michaelpotts.com/Venice/
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Escape to the chateau with ’The Chateau Diaries’ 🏰
In 'Sundays at the Chateau', chatelaine Stephanie answers all your questions about life in the 16th century Chateau de Lalande, and introduces you to the cultural and gastronomic treasures of France ❤️
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[@verukah]

As a docent at a museum of Spanish art, with some lovely Fortuny paintings, I found this one of the VERY BEST and most enjoyable presentations of all! Thanks for bringing the beauty of Fortuny to your audience. I too have a swath of Fortuny fabric picked up at the Venice atelier, and haven't know what to do with it; it's so precious I can't bear to cut into it! Wishing you all the best!

[@aleciaj8098]

Stephanie you truly have a gift of story telling. You are able to paint a picture and draw an interest that many people cannot do. I honestly didn't think I would be that interested in this video but I watched anyway because I watch all of your videos and I was totally engrossed and really thoroughly enjoyed it. I watch a lot of youtube channels but they don't have that special something that you have. You are meant to succeed at this and I'm so happy for you! If your channel with Oliver is anything like this video you guys will be incredible. You are definitely a shining star with a heart of gold. ⭐️💛Thank you for brightening up our lives.

[@barbibutton9619]

So agree. She honestly could have a show on history and do an outstanding job. The possibilities with her voice, her passion, her knowledge, are endless truly.

[@aleciaj8098]

@@barbibutton9619 yes! She could absolutely have her own television show. She definitely has that star quality but I love how down to earth she is and her zest for life is addicting. I found her channel about 2 months ago and I've almost seen every episode.

[@barbibutton9619]

@@aleciaj8098 me too..about that same time. Agree agree agree 😊

[@barblallier9413]

I totally agree, what a marvelous storyteller you are, such passion in every word! ❤

[@MiniDress360]

This isn’t something I really ever thought I’d be interested in but you talk with so much enthusiasm and energy that it’s impossible not to be drawn in! I loved it. Thank you for all the effort and time that went into making this video 🤍

[@francespietri824]

Agreed 100%

[@tgrams4201]

Your papa painted with colours and you paint with words. This was so well done. Thanks for your dedication to this, I learned so much. ❤️

[@scandinaviannaturediaries8892]

Stephanie: Truly, you are so knowledgeable and a gifted storyteller 😃

[@shellypala8497]

Stephanie wearing loungewear during the day = adorable and sweet. Me wearing loungewear during the day = the crazy neighbor who doesn’t get dressed. 😂❤️🏰 👗

[@oceanbrzzz]

Shelly Pala I want a silk robe with a map on it. I do have a couple “map” scarves, but they are too small to be worn as cover ups! I did recently buy a pretty Chinese influenced robe, I think now that the purchase was influenced by Stephanie!

[@ninas992]

😂

[@kit2130]

Hugh Hephner-ish !

[@tinamarina8983]

Honestly, you'd be the most engaging college professor. The way you weave history, art, architecture and literature together is fascinating! What a lovely video.

[@davidlalande]

Congrats on reaching 2000 patrons. I always knew you were going to be successful. Thank you to everyone for realizing how special a place Stephanie and company have made LaLande.

[@mariapetras5835]

Thank you ! ☺️ Go Lalanders!! History , Art , Architecture, Culinary , Music , and so much more ...🥰🤩

[@araven231]

Each “Sunday at the Chateau” is a work of art of itself. I really appreciate the information, the history and the way it’s presented. Thank you.

[@barbibutton9619]

Someone is going to recognize Stephanie's talent and knowledge for speaking/lecturing in historical art and steal her from us. Mark my words.

[@dawnmariemay8324]

We shall come from around the world to get our Stephanie back. She just did a calibration with Christie’s Auction House who approached her for the collaborationist it is wonderful ❣️ .

[@amberbrown5359]

Stephanie : After vlogging about European culture and the arts can you imagine doing anything else? Your love of these subjects show through making you very engaging to watch and listen to.💐💌🦚

[@cynthialambert9067]

What a marvelous tribute to Fortuny. Looking forward to seeing the fabric installed at La Lande.

[@josephinedavidson5968]

Oh my god this should be a complete Channel 4 programme for the world to watch, this is worthy of far more than UTube , Stephanie is more and more inspirational than ever, a natural orator of the importance of history and beauty, unique portrayal of the history and life of Fortuny Fabrics. What we see is completely mesmerising , well done Stephanie x

[@TheFiown]

I was given a few lengths of Fortuny fabrics by a collegue whose mother worked there. I accepted them without actually realising the price of them ! I have them somewhere, must look them out.

[@karinbergman1646]

💗💗💗

[@terriepowell2935]

How lucky you are!!!

[@dearmaria4654]

How exciting!

[@barbibutton9619]

My goodness, yes!

[@patriciaodoherty5202]

Oh Stephanie! I could sit and listen to you forever,Thank you ,thank you,thank you!!!

[@Julibeansreads]

The amount of work and research you must have to do for these Sundays videos is amazing

[@kaihandren9309]

My darling girl .. you have turned my ordinary afternoon into a mesmerizing journey to hear and see the soft and cloudy world of old beauty and sumptuous feelings....spoken by a lyrical voiced beauty.....ahhh....thank you !

[@patriciaodoherty5202]

She is lovely in all ways!

[@cculler52]

You did Helen Higgins proud with your wonderful comprehensive Fortuny presentation. Thank you for sharing your passion with us.

[@taitweigel64]

Your passion for Fortuny has opened my mind to the art in his designs. Thank you for this gift, Stephanie!

[@susanwoodward7485]

You are at the epitome of your purpose in life when doing this type of educational video. Love everything about your channel, but a special appreciation for your love of beauty and the fullness of history that generates such beauty, and so well articulated. Thank you also for the link to Michael Potts' exquisite photography.

[@ArtfulShelley]

FABULOUS! Stephanie! I am an artist. I have had classes on French painters, and studied all sorts of artists for years. Your in-depth biography of Fortuny and his work is inspiring, and clearly, your passion. Well done! Merci beaucoup!

[@WendyDewarHughes]

Last year I went to Rome and while there, took a two day jaunt to Venice - not long enough. I visited the Fortuny museum while in Venice and though I was familiar with the Fortuny dresses, my eyes were opened to the fabulous array of artistic pursuits followed by Mariano Fortuny, and also to his father's paintings. As an artist myself, this museum was a high point of my entire trip. Thank you for such a lovely, inspiring tribute to Fortuny.

[@zulemaalamo4863]

Stephanie my sister and I love to watch you and we consider ourselves very fortunate to have you in the world. God bless you love Sue and Carmen.

[@dloadthis1617]

My Dear Stephanie, The amount of time that you spent researching Fortuny is clearly appreciated by all! I could listen to you for hours. Your vlogs never disappoint. BRAVO! 💕💓 👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋

[@cindypope4952]

Stephanie is truly gifted.

[@pussygalore5947]

Every time a new video begins with you opening the gate and almost throwing your right shoulder out, it brings a smile to my face.

[@cherylcarlson3315]

Somewhere, through the echoes of time you have delighted Fortuny with your passionate love of his work.

[@wynncarter6783]

Stephanie, I was mesmerized from start to finish. You are the most amazing storyteller. Your in-depth biography of Fortuny and his work is inspiring. Michael's photographs of Venice are just spectacular....he has such amazing talent. Thank you, another triumph! xxx

[@sofi_wanderess]

What a way to end your week with Sundays at the Chateaux.

[@debbiemollison9866]

I love the lamp shade

[@ninianmacmillan-keith7435]

Brilliant Stephanie, better than anything on mainstream tv. I’m so glad I discovered you.

[@auntytutu]

First visit to Venice was on a day tour and was more excited about other stops like Pompeii and Rome. But when we got to Venice I finally understood why it is so special and it became my favorite of all the stops on that tour. Second visit to Venice, several years later, was with a friend and what a time we had, stayed for 3 days and immersed ourselves in the city. I feel so fortunate to have had the privileged to have visited. What an amazing place.

[@sumaclane8020]

This is so well done .. how she just keeps going and the infomration... non stop flowing ... learned so much today... Thanks for this

[@laurenaardman2100]

Loved this so much. Enjoyed the history and the way in which Stephanie tells the history was captivating 🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@jenh9361]

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE FORTUNY FABRICS... MAGNIFICENT CREATIONS!!!

[@eunidapieters9331]

You do it with so much grace and taste, historic themes are genuinely your forte, truly, you belong at a documentary set as a host. Thank you Stephanie!xx

[@arielblumenduft3293]

About 25 years ago my mother tried to call my aunt and uncle - both dedicated "Wagnerianer" (that's what we call Wagner fans in german) - and the housekeeper picked up the phone and said "I'm sorry, they have gone to BEIRUT!" For about an hour my mother thought something terrible must have happened because why on earth would my aunt go to Lebanon and not even tell her about it?! Soon she realized that it was the BAYREUTH- time of the year. Since that daywhenever someone's whereabouts are uncertain or if someone doesn't pick up the phone we say in our family that he or she "is probably in Beirut".

[@scpmdt]

You are a genius. You have given me an idea. Whenever I know not the location of someone I will say “they have gone to Beirut’ . Keep them guessing eh!

[@terriepowell2935]

How funny!!! Yeesssss a new catch phrase!!

[@sorcha259]

Beirut once The Paris of the Middle East. A hub of art and fashion, fusion of east and west, tradition and modernity. War torn and tired turned tragedy into cultural innovation and intellectual endeavours. Once a French colony and rich in French influence. History is repeating itself in Beirut today - political corruption, a collapsed economy and a devastating blast to add salt to the wounds. Pray for Lebanon xxx

[@scpmdt]

Sorcha London: Rest assured we are all praying for the people of Lebanon. May they all prosper & have a peaceful life which every human being deserves.

[@annolsen4943]

What a cute story

[@amyellzey]

Stephanie: you don’t disappoint. Another glorious commentary on art and culture intersecting with France. I’m now even more in love with Fortuny...thank you!!!

[@RalphTGP]

That fabric is absolutely glorious, it takes my breath away.

[@bonniesteinke6624]

How lovely it was of that lady to offer you the Fortuny fabric. It is wonderful to think that it will be at home in La Lande😊

[@probstnatalie]

This was so much fun watching and I don't even care about fabrics :) Stephanie is am an amazing storyteller.

[@candydonnelly7543]

Thank you Stephanie for sharing this magical fabric. When I am back in Venice, I will definitely see The Fortuny Museum. What a heavenly video! ❤️❤️❤️

[@whatever2106]

It is an absolute joy to listen to your stories Stephanie! You bring magic and joy into my days with your videos. Thank you for being your beautiful self ❤️

[@tanjatibaldi1578]

A million thanks, dear Stephanie, for enriching our lives!

[@V.Hansen.]

You are really good at these. Its always as if you are an experienced professor giving a lecture you've refined over many years. I know you edit, but it just has such a natural flow. So easy to listen to. Always fascinating.

[@ArtGardens]

Marvelous, absolutly marvelous Stephanie your free lecture about Mariano Fortuny. I watched it twice . Many thanks

[@janetthomas8244]

Worth the wait, Fortuny, Poiret and Vionnet, For me the 3 giants of design. Can't wait to see the wall, Great idea instead of the bed curtains. Thanks so much.

[@bobatchison-pallasart-hagi8884]

EXCELLENT SHOW! I knew almost nothing about Fortuny. Thank you for sharing your knowledge along with personal stories and examples. Please make more of these - they have a very long shelf-life and each one is an example of your own long-term investment in yourself as a brand. People will be watching this for years and years to come.

[@mjgoingplaces8111]

We can create the world that we want to create! Loveeeee this! 😘💕🌴💕

[@beatriceangelini7784]

Happy Sunday everyone,sending love from Italy🤗💕💕💕

[@oliveappleby8672]

When I hear Fortunys name, pleats always come to mind. I didn't realise he was an accomplished painter. As always a fascinating vlog. Your energy is amazing.👏🏻👗👗👗🖋🎨🖌💖💋

[@lorrainechircop4411]

A beautiful history lesson Stephanie sharing your love and admiration for the one of a kind Fortuny. Wonderful 🇦🇺❤

[@rosalindhambleton9012]

Bonjour Stephanie. I have a Venise as you do, I must say that this video is one of my favorite. You did a wonderful job as telling about Mariano Fortuni and his work. Thank you so very much for sharing.

[@doreleimcmillan7924]

Wow Stephanie. You are such a good teacher. I wish I could go back in time and see all the different textiles that his sister and mother pulled out. I enjoyed those lovely shots of Venice. I did go look at Michael's photos and really liked the one of you with the white umbrella.

[@aleta5873]

And it's amazing she stayed on point even with the Rooster competing with her talk. Haa!

[@seviregis7441]

How fascinating. Thank you for this wonderful exposition of the great and diverse artist, designer, and manufacturer, Fortuny

[@amandavanlingen1768]

So interesting Stephanie- could listen to you for hours. The knowledge, passion and heart you share with us is truly appreciated. Thank you. Beautiful blessings Mandy 👑SA

[@sandraweiler5971]

I always look forward to seeing your sweet smile Stephanie. Happy Sunday 🌸

[@carolinehorne6505]

Well done Stephanie, that was thoroughly enjoyable. I love this kind of history, fortuny is so beautiful. Cannot wait to see your new bedroom, I too would have used it for a walk covering. It will be stunning. Xx

[@linedallaire9631]

Omg...that was sooooo interesting...what a genius that Fortuny.... you are right Stephanie, that fabric of yours needs a whole wall...it will be divine....

[@marystarke6735]

Thank you for researching this for us Stephanie! What a renaissance man! I can't believe I've never heard of him until your vlog 💓

[@sorcha259]

Mariano Fortuny a rich legacy beautifully narrated by Chatelaine Stephanie.

[@luciagonzalez2074]

Fascinating, I am absolutely blown away by this amazing story you have told us here tonight. I simply had no idea about this gifted man and his work, thank you for enlighting me and teaching me how to appreciate great beauty in fabric and design.

[@Rebekahlow]

Fantastic!!!!! You really brought Fortuny to life !!!!! I look forward to more videos like this!!! You're an awesome educator!!!!! Love from Vermont

[@brenschilling3529]

Stephanie you have really outdone yourself!! What a wonderful tribute and learning opportunity on the one and only, great and gifted FORTUNY! Thank you so much for sharing about this world renowned leading artist and designer. As a trained Interior Designer, I love the fabric that Helen sent. Yes, agree, that wall panels are perfect for building a room around this sumptuous Fortuny fabric. You will always love being surrounded by it, It is absolutely perfecto for you and LaLande. From across the pond in The Golden Isles of GA Georgia USA, XOXO Love #TheBren

[@dawnmariemay8324]

These are my favourite videos you make . I so love you knowledge and appreciate the study that goes into them ! Thank you , so very. 🙏❤️🙏

[@seashells5181]

Stephanie, You have researched and narrated the life of Fortuny in a way to make a philistine such as I, become enraptured with his life, art and tapestries Thank you

[@sandijack6724]

Good morning everyone at Lalande from Australia...🌹🌹🌹

[@Leebearify]

WOW, just wow. Michael's photos were gorgeous. I will be watching this one over and over again. So much to see ! Thank you !!!

[@dawngough1133]

What an incredible master Fortuny was. Never realised how thin his fabrics were. Thought the photographs were Michael Potts'. They are incredibly artistic. Would love to see some more. Fascinating vlog Stephanie!

[@debimacinnis5548]

I feel like I have been offered a once in a life time art course. I find myself drawn into the life of this genius artist Fortuny thru the artistry of your voice. I also feel privileged to have a chance to experience the incredible , beautiful and astonishing photo's of Micheal Potts. I simply cannot express in words how much you have impacted my simple life into a world of beauty. Thank you does not seem enough

[@Randy8923]

Enjoyed. Amazing history of Fortuny.

[@juliawoodhead7422]

Such a wealth of knowledge. So fascinating to listen to and learn. Thank you for bringing this wonderful man to us all.

[@cindymarie2475]

Stephanie you too surround yourself with precious things like Fortuny. You are such a wonderful storyteller 💕🥂 Very bright and passionate. Your dad is watching you and so so proud!!

[@paulabibb1116]

You do paint beautifully with words, and with the stunning modulation of your voice , I was not surprised to learn that you were an opera performer in the past.

[@antonkostrik]

Dearest Stephanie. I, as a fashion and recently more a shoe designer, am extremely fortunate to have the chance of seeing this video! I love this live-through explanation of Mariano Fortuny y Madrazo. Thank you for that and in hope I’m thanking you and wishing you a beautiful days ahead. From Czech, working on my own diploma project of something new - a smart sensory yet still fashions shoes. Let’s meet at some point somewhere in the world and have a discussions of such an “aesthetism” like the work of Fortuny. Oldrich

[@elisa7881]

Venezia, Fortuny, a touch of Proust and ...Stéphanie! La vie est belle... Thank you. You are an extraordinary raconteuse.

[@SJFoss]

This was better than any lesson in my art history courses! I felt so full after listening to you, like I had truly learnt something of value. I’ve never heard of Fortuny before, but now I will always keep an eye out for him. I was amazed that the fabric was printed and not embroidered. You are really good at conveying your message and I love the genuine enthusiasm you have.

[@vanessaschofield7927]

thankyou steffanie for this very enlightening informative vlog. You are such a great narrator and story teller its so interesting how you present the subject and you are truley knowledgable.

[@ichaconf]

I like each new Sunday at the Chateau more than the one before...Bravo!!!!

[@dig3671]

You are very erudite with a light touch! I really enjoyed this as all the others!

[@ivychaza]

So appreciated. Wonderful .

[@TheDoozer52]

Thank you Stephanie, this was just amazing to sit and watch. You make everything so interesting and take us all to another world, out of this dreary, sad, fearful world. For a while we can lose ourselves, in our minds with beautiful artwork and fabulous history. Give everyone at Lalande my love, you all bring a smile to my heart. xxx Doreen

[@hatshepsut8329]

Fabulous!!! My soul has been crying out for a museum visit which has been impossible because the museums here in New York are still closed. Your beautiful and extremely informative vlog was just what I needed. Interestingly, just the other day one of my neighbors here in Greenwich Village put out a box of books for anyone to take and I picked up Swann’s Way In Search of Lost Time! Can’t wait to get on it now. ♥️

[@cassandragatt649]

I throughly enjoyed this post Stephanie thank you 🙏. Your wealth of knowledge and passion for fabric is inspiring. I hope that others who have vintage fabric past it onto you. It was so kind of the lady to offer you that exquisite piece. Your voice is conducive to this type of production,eloquent and fervent. ❤️🇦🇺

[@lydiarowe491]

Making beauty to surround yourself with can be made possible by that wonderful sense of gleaning pieces that impress you just because..with Fortuny the interest you have immersed yourself in Stephanie has now morphed into those who follow you... Down the pathway of magic.. Thank you for this most satisfying historical piece.. ♥ HAPPY DAYS . ♥

[@metropcs7560]

Thank you Micheal Potts, beauty is everywhere, for you to see it and share to us is a blessing, God bless!!! I appreciate everyone who has shared and given because it blesses my heart strings and my art soul, means so much !!!

[@chrismumford5926]

That was so interesting Stephanie, thank you.

[@janetg1691]

Thank you for an education into a world I did not know existed. I am looking forward to your new bedroom remodel around a Fortuny cotton print panel.

[@SB_McCollum]

You have a pair of griffons on your fabric, also featured in a mural of the Palace of Knossos. They are mythical, of course, having the body of lions and the head and sometimes wings of eagles.

[@judithschatunowski6273]

That was a fascinating vlog Stephanie! You have a natural talent for bringing history alive! More please! Can’t wait to see your Lake Garda adventures with Oliver!

[@nomebear]

A friend loaned me the use of one of his many homes. The outside of the home looked like every other house on the street, nothing special. But just beyond the doorway was an execution in obsession. The art deco appointments in the home were subtle yet astounding, and there was a theme, the German film 'Metropolis'. The design in the custom loomed fabrics was repeated in the custom wall paper, the tile work, the metal in the railings, and that carried into chromed metal irons, fire place tools, and in the frosted glass fireplace screen. Without a keen eye, one would not notice, but the attention to finite detail was obsessive. The coupe d' grace was a full size model of the robot 'Maria' recreated in bronze.

[@barbibutton9619]

How fortunate!

[@andreaandrea6716]

Gorgeous lamps and so beautifully fitted to your chateau! I didn't know about 'half lamps' or 'half shades,' but WHAT A CLEVER IDEA!! I think it's nice NOT to be able to afford certain things, to save up for them and then ... they are extra special and you love them even more. This is the one thing that super rich people miss out on; that sense of small things being really special. I did this with a Persian carpet and every time I walk across it, I'm happy!!

[@radicalmama135]

omg.... beyond excited! I think Sundays might be my favorite ❤

[@terriepowell2935]

Shannon Tymkiw They are mine!! 🥰

[@leslie4551]

My favorite, too.

[@radicalmama135]

@@terriepowell2935 its the the PERFECT combination of learning and entertainment!! Like the worlds best "school house roxk" but for adults!🤣🤣🤣💕💕🤩 I will say,, why hollywood has not come a knockin yet... I have no clue😜😎 Though i would hate for anything to change! Except of course, for our lovely Stephanie to get some sleep!

[@mjgoingplaces8111]

Hi Stephanie, I hope you're enjoying your Holiday! Can't wait to see those vlogs! Congratulations on all your success! 💕🌴💕

[@rebeccab6791]

Wow, I loved this! Thank you for taking the time to reserach it, fantastic Stephanie!

[@johnwharton7473]

Thank-you Stephanie for the joy and enthusiasm you share with us when you tell of these wonderful collections and art works. It fills me with longing for more.

[@tunecarstunecars3734]

Stephanie, I could listen to you all the time! I’ve learnt so much about a lot of things - you are a complete treasure. Thank you and lots of love and hugs from Auckland New Zealand xxx

[@Jayrose59]

Hello from wellington

[@vincentminor1638]

Fashion and Fabric. My favorite things in life. Thank you so much. If you had been one of my teachers when I was in fashion school, I believe I would have remembered moor. Love you voice and mannerisms.

[@colinbryan333]

The clock has been set. So looking forward to this Vlog. 👍