Luxembourg – Jonathan (37) has been passionate about Asterix since childhood. What began as a simple fascination with a blue album cover has grown into a diverse and personal collection that spans figurines, fèves, translations, and rare printed editions. Today, he shares his passion with fans around the world through his website Village Astérix.
Early Discovery of Asterix
The first Asterix album Jonathan remembers reading is The Great Divide, a volume he encountered at a very young age. The striking blue cover left a strong impression and sparked a lifelong connection to the world of Goscinny and Uderzo’s indomitable Gauls.
Favorite Album and Characters
Jonathan’s favourite album is The Mansions of the Gods. Rather than choosing a single favourite character, he appreciates how each figure in the Asterix universe has a distinctive personality that makes them unique and endearing.
How His Collection Began
Jonathan began collecting at around 8 or 9 years old while spending summers at his grandparents’ home. Their extensive library of Franco-Belgian comics exposed him to many series, but Asterix stood out. Once he expressed his enthusiasm, the gifts quickly followed: themed pajamas, lollipops, and even the well-known Nutella promotional sesterces of the time. These early memories laid the foundation for his passion as a collector.
Focus of the Collection
Over time, Jonathan narrowed his focus to two main categories:
- Figurines, including fèves
- Books, especially translations into different languages and dialects
Although these form the core of his collection, he also keeps several other Asterix items acquired over the years.
A Treasured Object with Deep Sentimental Value
Among all his pieces, one object stands above the rest: a special Angoulême edition of the Belgian stamp book “Ils sont timbrés, les Gaulois !”
Jonathan’s mother gifted him this book during a period of financial difficulty for the family. Her sacrifice makes the item priceless to him today, especially as she now suffers from Alzheimer’s disease. As her memories fade, the album has become a deeply emotional reminder of her love and support.
Organizing the Collection
Jonathan admits he keeps no formal organisation system. Although a friend has offered specialized cataloguing software, he has not yet adopted it. Instead, his main platform for sharing his collection and tracking new releases is his website: villageasterix.com, a long-running hub for Asterix fans.
Items He Still Hopes to Add
Jonathan now collects more by impulse than out of a desire to complete sets. However, there is one item he still dreams of acquiring: the Pixi figurine released for the 50th anniversary of Asterix.
Other Comic Interests
While Asterix remains his main focus, Jonathan has developed an appreciation for comic art in general. He owns a few original comic pages, along with a small selection of Tintin and Bécassine figurines. He also enjoys reading series such as:
- Gaston Lagaffe
- Agent 212
- More dramatic works like Kean, Vaudeville, and comics by Servais
A Message to Fellow Asterix Fans
Jonathan encourages fans to embrace what they love without hesitation:
“Don’t be afraid to love what makes you feel good. Don’t let prejudices about your passions hold you back, and feel free to share them with us!”
Are you an Asterix collector too? I’d love to hear your story! If you’d like your collection to be featured on AsterixtheGaul.com, feel free to contact me—big or small, every Gaulish treasure has a tale worth sharing. Join the village!
