Harnais A l’Anglaise, Hugo Grygkar, 1955 – the “English Harness” pays tribute not just as the name suggests to the English harness, but the English tradition of horsemanship as a whole, which had a huge influence on the rest of Europe throughout history.  From harness to riding style, it was reserved for the elite and demanded style and elegance.  Horses had to wear quite constraining bridles in order to be prevented from raising their heads and galloping, which was strictly for the purpose of hunting or riding in the country. 

This carre takes its inspiration from four aquarelles by the German artist, Rudolf Werner Ackermann (1908-1982), which are part of the Émile Hermès’ collection in Paris.  You may recall that this vast and varied collection has been the inspiration to so many vintage carres, such as Ex Libris, Musee, or Les Cles to name but a few.

At the center of the scarf is a landau, an elegant horse drawn open carriage characterized by a double roof with a removable front cover and a back cover that can be raised and lowered.

Once again, merci Monsieur Grygkar for giving us Harnais A l’Anglaise!

Harnais A L’Anglaise Hermes silk scarf designed by Hugo Grygkar – 1955 – SOLD