A Rider’s Survival from Tyranny

Charles de Kunffy retells the dramatic events of his privileged and turbulent young life. A European nobleman in the stormy years of World War II and the Hungarian Revolution perseveres to become a prominent equestrian. During the Soviet occupation, de Kunffy finds a life-saving island of tranquility in the ancient art of classical horsemanship. Fascinating stories of his great mentors, ‘professor’ horses and remarkable characters are vividly described in an uncertain historical period. The extensive photograph collection included here remarkably survived war and revolution and bears witness to the impeccable equitation demanded of jumping riders schooled in the Caprilli system. The author’s account of life under brutal tyranny, and the victorious survival of a civilized mind, are a testament to a determined and sensitive spirit. Tragic at times, funny at others, this true-life tale of travel through a rugged social landscape is graced with equestrian salvation.