Method of Equitation Based on New Principles

François Baucher was a French equestrian who mastered his trade; his classic guide to riding the horse is both detailed and illustrated.

A horseman of many years’ experience, Baucher crafted his theories on riding meticulously. He describes how a rider should mount the horse, and his exact position while on horseback. How to manage the horse at various stages and speeds, and how to put the saddle, bridle and reins to best use are just some of the topics he discusses. The more complex descriptions and methods are accompanied with illustrations to aid comprehension.

To this day, Baucher’s writings are consulted by enthusiasts of horse riding and dressage, his skill and authority carrying weight even among modern riders. He had great expertise in training a horse to adopt the best posture, with his rassembler motion particularly well-regarded. Though aspects of his tuition remain controversial to this day, it cannot be denied that Baucher’s equitation was and remains influential for dressage riders.