Les Oiseaux du Roy is a striking Hermes scarf designed by Caty Latham in 1994. This coveted piece features the Royal Falconer, elegantly holding a group of falcons on a frame, surrounded by the king’s hooded falcons perched on chains.
The Grand Falconer of France, an esteemed position from the Middle Ages to the French Revolution, originated in 1250 as the “Master Falconer of the King” (Maître Fauconnier). By 1406, the title was elevated to Grand Falconer, with the responsibility of organizing royal falcon hunts and caring for the king’s birds, becoming one of the “Great Offices of the King’s Household” (Grand Office de la Maison du Roi).
During Louis XIV’s reign, the role became honorary as hunting with birds of prey declined. Nonetheless, Louis XIV maintained a symbolic aviary in Montainville, reflecting his power. Falcons were presented annually in the Galerie des Glaces at Versailles, often in the presence of foreign ambassadors.
This Hermes scarf beautifully captures the historical splendor of the Grand Falconer’s tradition, making Les Oiseaux du Roy not just a fashion statement, but a piece of French heritage, connecting the past’s grandeur with modern elegance.
