Arts of a Saddle
The Quest for Excellence – A Symphony in Seven Stages
In the BUTET workshop, every saddle is much more than a mere object; it is a work of art.
Today, we unveil our new institutional video, a testament to the authenticity of BUTET Sellier.
We envisioned a video that elevates this exceptional craftsmanship by comparing it to seven major forms of art. Each representing a key moment in the production process, creating the saddle as the 8th form. A true ode to French craftsmanship, where noble leather and expert hands engage in dialogue with refinement and precision, in the grand equestrian tradition.
01
The literature
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The Leather: an Art of Material
In a ballet of textures and shades, selecting the leather is an almost literary act. Like a reader before a manuscript, the artisan examines, touches, and feels. Each hide is a blank page, full of promise, ready to reveal its potential under the sensitive fingers of those who know how to read perfection.
02
The architecture
The Tree: The Invisible Architecture
Just as a master builder builds a cathedral, the artisan designs the saddle tree with rigor and harmony. It is the invisible framework, the skeleton that will support the whole, where every curve is crafted with the precision of an architect. Like an ancient temple, the tree is the perfect blend of strength and lightness.
03
The music
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Stitching: A Melody of Precision
The hands that stitch and assemble leather pieces are akin to those of a virtuoso pianist. The thread glides over the leather like a note on a score, creating a visual and tactile melody. Each stitch is a chord, each seam a symphony, together orchestrating the union of material and skill.
04
The sculpture
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The Serial Number: Inscribing Authenticity
Engraving the serial number on the saddle is like signing a masterpiece. The details of a saddle are meticulously sculpted, ensuring the uniqueness of each piece. Under the artisan's attentive eye, the saddle is examined like a pottery piece would be. Every detail is scrutinized, every curve examined until perfection is achieved.
05
The painting
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Oiling: A Palette of Colors and Textures
Applying oils to the leather is a genuine pictorial work. The brush glides across the surface, revealing the depth of hues, bringing out natural nuances. Like a painter at work, the artisan brings the leather to life, giving it its unique patina and incomparable luster.
06
The dance
A Choreographed Gait
The saddle leaves the workshop and comes to life on the horse’s back, and magic happens. This is the final step, where this artistic piece becomes functional, where the creation comes to life. The choreography, a dance between man, a horse, and an object. The saddle embraces the horse’s back like a dancer embraces their partner, in perfect harmony.
07
The cinema
Under the Spotlight
The finished saddle is delicately placed on the horse’s back, like a climactic scene in a grand film. At this moment, the work comes to life. Every detail, every movement of the horse becomes a carefully orchestrated sequence. Like a director positioning the camera to capture the perfect moment, the artisan stages the meeting between art and function, between man and animal, in a moment where everything synchronizes into a sublime image—a final shot that tells the story of excellence.