Mathieu Richer Mamousse: The Boy on the Horse

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ONE PHOTO – ONE STORY

11.11.2022

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“I took this image in 2018 during the pilgrimage to the Virgin of Rocio in Andalusia in southern Spain. It is part of a documentary series I made between 2017 and 2019, dedicated to spiritual and religious celebrations around the world, focusing on the associated clothing, costumes and folklore. During this pilgrimage, several thousand people walk or ride on horseback across Spain to the village of Rocio, where the Virgin is said to have made an appearance. They are accompanied by beautiful decorated carioles pulled by oxen.

It is the largest Catholic pilgrimage in Spain and Europe. It is, in itself, a great patchwork of colours, where tradition and religious heritage are the key. For some families, it is also a demonstration of their religious status, as the wealthy families of landowners like to lead the convoys on horseback, and are positioned for the most part at the head of the processions.

This young man I photographed is part of one of those families. Through his appearance and posture, we can get an idea of all the traditional heritage of these great Andalusian families, who often take advantage of pilgrimages and Catholic festivals as a way to reaffirm their social standing.”

Text and Image: © Mathieu Richer Mamousse
Equipment: Leica M6 with Summicron-M 35 f/2 Asph

Issue 8/2022 of the LFI magazine carries a comprehensive portfolio.