From Equine Nutrition to Leather & Stitch: French Woman Revives Ancient Craft in Urgent Bid to Save a Dying Art
Beaussault, France – August 30, 2025 – In a story resonating with those seeking purpose and a return to tangible skills, Marie Protet-Langlère, a Seine-Maritime resident, is embarking on a dramatic career shift. After two decades in technical sales for equine nutrition, she’s answering a lifelong calling to become a sellier harnacheur – a saddler and harness maker – a profession rapidly fading from the French landscape. This breaking news highlights a growing trend: individuals seeking fulfillment through traditional crafts and a desire to preserve cultural heritage.
A Journey Back to the Hands
For 20 years, Marie traversed France, logging over 80,000 kilometers annually as a technical sales representative. While successful, the constant travel and disconnect from hands-on creation left her feeling unfulfilled. “In my job, I traveled more than 80,000 km per year. I met horse professionals, from the breeder to coaches, including the pony-clubs. In the end, I no longer found myself in this activity,” she explains. The turning point came with a deep-seated need to work with her hands and a fascination with the scent and feel of leather – a connection forged through years immersed in the equine world, from agricultural studies specializing in horses to working as a healing rider.
The Last of a Breed: Mentorship and Succession
Marie’s search led her to Emmanuelle Dondlinger, the only practicing sellier harnacheur in Seine-Maritime, who is preparing to retire. This isn’t just a training opportunity; it’s a crucial succession plan. Dondlinger will pass on her invaluable knowledge, ensuring the craft doesn’t vanish from the region. The role of the modern saddler extends far beyond equestrian equipment. It encompasses the creation and repair of leather goods – bags, belts, animal accessories, even furniture – offering a sustainable alternative to disposable consumerism. “This job is in disappearance. It is not limited to the equestrian world, it allows fix and create of the everyday leather objects Like bags, belts, animal necklaces or seats. It meets the current issues: repair rather than throw away,” Marie emphasizes.
Funding the Passion: A Community Effort
The 10-month CAP de Sellier Harnacheur training at IFCE – Haras du Pin comes with a hefty price tag: €13,000 for tuition alone, escalating to a total of €34,000 when factoring in equipment, accommodation, and travel. Marie has utilized her personal training account (CPF) for €4,000, but a significant gap remains. Undeterred, she launched an online kitty to bridge the financial divide, appealing to a community that recognizes the importance of preserving this unique skill. This highlights a growing trend of crowdfunding for artisanal training and the revitalization of traditional trades.
Marie will manufacture and repair stools and everyday leather objects in her workshop. © Marie Protet-Langlère
More Than Just a Job: A Sustainable Future
Marie envisions a workshop in Beaussault, strategically located near the Somme and Oise regions, serving the local equestrian community and beyond. Her business model centers around three pillars: crafting and repairing equestrian gear, creating bespoke leather goods, and restoring antique leather items – all with a commitment to durability and sustainability. She’s already secured a network of contacts within the equine industry, positioning her for success. “I made the choice to win less but to be fulfilled in what I do,” she states, a sentiment echoing the values of a growing number of individuals prioritizing passion over purely financial gain. Marie also hopes to eventually take on trainees and apprentices, continuing the cycle of knowledge transfer and ensuring the future of this vital craft.
Marie’s story is a powerful reminder of the enduring appeal of craftsmanship, the importance of preserving cultural heritage, and the courage it takes to pursue a more meaningful path. Her dedication and the community support she’s receiving demonstrate that even in a rapidly changing world, there’s a strong desire to connect with tangible skills and the beauty of handmade objects. Stay tuned to archyde.com for further updates on Marie’s journey and the revival of traditional crafts across France and beyond.
