Horsehair Braid - Patou’s Method

Don't you love the sound of horsehair braid? I often feel I am holding history in my hands when I work with horsehair braid. Can you imagine it coming from the wiry hair of a horse's mane and tail? I mean, who was the first to come up with this idea? I'm in awe over the inventiveness of old tailors and dressmakers, who found ways to create volume and shape using humble items they had on hand.