Revised and reposted March 4, 2026
The Inspiration: From Versailles to Géricault
With the L’Arriere-Main Hermès carré, artist and illustrator Philippe Ledoux [Link to the Artist’s Bio] draws his inspiration from a painting by Théodore Géricault entitled Les Croupes, (The Hindquarters).
Most likely the studies for this painting found their inspiration at the Royal Stable, the Grande Écurie of Versailles, a monumental structure that can house up to six hundred horses. Constructed during the 17th century under the watchful eye of Jules Hardouin-Mansart, the Royal Stables remain a center for equestrian excellence as the home of the Académie du Spectacle Équestre.
(photo courtesy wikimedia)
A Playful Composition
Les Croupes is a strikingly unusual composition, portraying twenty-five horses arranged in three neat rows. Rather than focusing on their heads or profiles, Géricault focuses on the strength and form of the hindquarters. In the original oil painting, one “rebellious” horse stands out, turned around to face the audience; a detail that adds a touch of lightness and humor to the formal arrangement.
The Ledoux Interpretation
In his highly sought-after 1969 design, Philippe Ledoux masterfully translates Géricault’s vision to silk. Interestingly, Monsieur Ledoux made a deliberate choice to omit the defiant horse, instead presenting three uniform rows of twenty-three well-minding horses.
While the “rebel” is gone, Ledoux meticulously included the checkered blankets (couvertures à carreaux) characteristic of Géricault’s equestrian works. This detail creates an undeniable link to the French Master’s style, making the L’Arrière-Main a fascinating study in artistic tribute and mystery.
