| Chocolate: a sensual flavour...
"Food of the gods" according to the Swedish naturalist Carl von Linné,
or a diabolical temptation in the view of Madame de Sévigné: chocolate is often
associated with sensual pleasure.
The likes of Casanova and Madame du Barry, Louis XV’s favourite, were quick to
attribute aphrodisiac properties to it. Tea was held to have therapeutic
qualities. "I have seen the princess who is taking twelve cups of tea
per day. This, she says, is curing her of all her ailments." (Mme de
Sévigné)
These drinks, which were very much in vogue in the 18th century, have been restored
to their fashionable status thanks to the new Club ChocolaThé, which is dedicated to the love of
these elixirs of pleasure. Lectures and other events are organised periodically. |
