Marseille Soap, Le Serail
We were invited last fall to visit several small factories and artisans who were recipients of the coveted EPV (Enterprise du Patrimoine Vivant) award, in hopes that we would help make known the work of these talented people. They represent the best of France's "living heritage", and the EPV recognizes their adherence to the best traditions of their work and its present quality.
Le Serail, still making soap in Marseille itself, goes through a lengthy, but relatively simple process of heating the three basic ingredients in 3 story high cauldrons for ten days, then washing and cooling, and finally cutting and stamping by hand.
Quel Objet offers their soap in four different fragrances: Lily of the Valley, Red Vine, Lavender, and Olive.