What Does This Painting of Two Roosters Represent?
In this artwork, Laurence Saunois didn’t choose her subjects at random. She deliberately paired two emblematic rooster breeds: one ancient and nearly forgotten, the other proudly upheld by traditional French breeders.
On the left stands a rooster with a distinctive V-shaped comb and glossy black plumage—a La Flèche chicken, a breed originating from the village of Mézeray in the Sarthe region of France. Its name comes from the nearby town of La Flèche. Dating back to the 15th century, this bird was once prized for its exceptionally delicate meat, gracing the tables of French nobility and gourmets alike. Today, a few dedicated breeders still raise this rare heritage breed for select customers and top-tier cuisine.
On the right, the proud white rooster belongs to the Bresse-Gauloise breed—world-renowned for its exceptional quality. These birds are raised under strict traditional methods and are the only poultry in the world to benefit from a protected designation of origin (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée, or AOC), granted in 1957. It is the pinnacle of French culinary tradition and artisanal breeding.
Both breeds are among the few French chickens listed in the prestigious British Poultry Standard. Through this painting, Laurence Saunois pays tribute to heritage breeds and the rich biodiversity they embody—standing in contrast to the standardized, industrial farming practices that dominate much of the modern food industry.
As productivity demands rise, ancient breeds with unique characteristics are vanishing. Genetic diversity is steadily eroding. Fortunately, passionate breeders continue to fight for the preservation of these living treasures. With this artwork, the artist lends her voice—and her brush—to that mission, celebrating the enduring value of authenticity and tradition.
.Original . Edition
.Original . Edition
.Original . Edition
.Original . Edition
