Description:
(horsebreeder, jockey) Étienne Balsan, a French socialite and successful cavalryman, transitioned to horse breeding and racing. He owned the Chateau de Royallieu estate and was a renowned polo player. Balsan played a key role in the fashion industry by supporting and mentoring Coco Chanel, assisting in the opening of her boutique in Deauville and introducing her to influential figures in Paris society. His influence and connections were crucial to Chanel's early success in the fashion business.