"Grande ecurie du Haras du Pin" 

This painting depicts a scene from daily life at the Haras national du Pin, France's oldest and most prestigious national stud farm. Founded in 1715 by Louis XIV and Colbert, the Haras du Pin has been dubbed the "Versailles of the horse" for its elegant architecture and role in equestrian breeding. The Haras has known moments of glory and crisis, depending on the vagaries of history and the needs of the army, agriculture or leisure. Today, the Haras is a tourist and cultural venue, offering tours, shows, exhibitions and competitions based around the horse.