The Camargue - White Horses, Black Bulls and their Gardiennes

The Camargue horse is an ancient breed indigenous to the Camargue area in southern France. For centuries these small horses have lived wild in the harsh environment of the Camargue marshes and wetlands of the Rhône delta. There they developed the stamina, hardiness and agility for which they are known today. The mares are never ridden but roam free, breeding fine grey foals each year. The stallions are traditionally used to herd the black fighting bulls of the region.

These images seek to capture the exuberant beauty of these semi-wild horses along with the gentleness of their quiet moments. The bulls they herd seem to show a malevolent independence and determination, while the gardiennes who manage the bulls have a dour strength of character along with a quiet pleasure in the ancient way of life that they are adapting into the modern world.