Hennebiques

Hennebiques is a term that can refer to several things, most notably a type of baked good and a former French film studio.

In the realm of confectionery, Hennebiques are small, often boat-shaped cakes originating from the region of Normandy in France. They are typically made with a light, airy batter, similar to a financier or a madeleine, and are often flavored with almonds and butter. Sometimes they are filled with fruit preserves or a light cream. The name is thought to derive from the French word "henné," meaning henna, possibly due to their characteristic golden-brown color. These pastries are a popular treat in French bakeries and tea rooms.

The term also identifies a significant early French film production company. Founded in 1900 by Alice Guy-Blaché and her husband Herbert Blaché, the Société des Films Gaumont (later Gaumont-Pathé) was a pioneer in the burgeoning film industry. While the company was officially named Gaumont, Alice Guy-Blaché was a prolific director and producer, and her films were often referred to by her personal nickname, "Hennebique," or by the name of her production company. This studio was instrumental in the development of narrative filmmaking and contributed significantly to the early evolution of cinema.