After composing Fiesque and Le Roi d'Ys, Edouard Lalo embarked on the composition of what he intended as his masterpiece; a historical and moral opera set against the background of a peasants' revolt. However Lalo died unexpectedly, having completed only the first act. His family entrusted Arthur Coquard with the task of completing the work. The work had a successful premiere in March, 1895 and was revived in Lyon and Paris during the same year.