Marius Monaco is once again proving that it’s more than just a refined dining spot — it’s becoming a true cultural hub. The restaurant’s third exhibition in its “Art of Storytelling” series brings something truly special: “Car Legends of Monaco”, a tribute to iconic cars, famous figures, and the glamorous past of the Principality, seen through the eyes of French illustrator Maxime Duvillard.
Launched on June 16 at the prestigious Quai Antoine I venue, the exhibition runs until July 14, inviting visitors on a visual journey through Monaco’s rich history — from the silver screen to the racing track, from palace gates to pit lanes.
Art deco on four wheels
Duvillard’s illustrations radiate the charm of a golden era. In a striking Art Deco-inspired style, each piece is a self-contained story, intricately detailed and emotionally rich. His process blends meticulous research with artistic flair: archives were scoured, memories revived, and each image resurrects a forgotten moment of Monaco’s past.
These aren’t just depictions of vehicles — they’re emotion-filled snapshots of memory, status, and legacy.
Cars with character, and characters in cars
Among the highlights are beautifully rendered vehicles from H.S.H. Prince of Monaco’s car collection, including the iconic powder-blue Sunbeam Alpine driven by Grace Kelly in To Catch a Thief, and the elegant Chrysler Imperial that welcomed her to Monaco as a future princess.
One charming piece brings to life a family anecdote: the royal Austin FX3 taxi, in which a young Prince Albert II reportedly once asked to ride in the luggage compartment. Duvillard captures this whimsical story with warmth and storytelling charm.
Speed, legends, and the spirit of the circuit
No tribute to Monaco would be complete without its racing heritage. This exhibition shifts gears with vibrant portrayals of legends like Louis Chiron, Ayrton Senna, and Charles Leclerc, captured mid-action in scenes that echo the roar and thrill of the Grand Prix’s legendary corners.
These are not just portraits — they’re living pieces of Monaco’s identity, filled with references to state visits, royal weddings, and cinematic glam.
A New Cultural Address in Monaco
Duvillard describes his approach as that of an “illustrator-investigator”, aiming to move and surprise viewers with works that reveal more than meets the eye. “Every illustration must tell a story,” he says, “and uncover something deeper beneath the surface.”
The “Car Legends of Monaco” exhibition continues the transformation of Marius Monaco from an upscale restaurant into a respected cultural destination. Previous chapters in the “Art of Storytelling” series featured works by Jean Cocteau, Raymond Moretti, and Marcos Marin — but this latest show may be the most striking yet.
Where to next? Straight to Marius Monaco
Open daily from 12:00 to 22:30 until July 14, the exhibition welcomes locals, tourists, and car enthusiasts alike to relive Monaco’s most iconic automotive moments — all under one elegant roof. From palace courtyards to F1 pit lanes, this is Monaco as you’ve never seen it before — drawn, detailed, and brought to life.
