[Pilgrimage] - Hans Silvester, silver gelatin print

Pilgrimage - Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, late 1950s – Silver gelatin print.

This photograph, taken during one of Hans Silvester’s many stays in the Camargue among the Gypsy community, belongs to the founding body of work presented in the “Silver Silvester” collection.

What lies behind this photograph ?

Thanks to his intimate knowledge of the Gypsy community, with whom he shared many months of life, Hans Silvester gained access to the most discreet traditions of the annual pilgrimage to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. He captures, in a spontaneous moment, the grace mixed with playful mischief of these young altar boys at the heart of a communion ceremony.

Produced from the artist’s original black-and-white negatives, the photograph has been printed using traditional silver gelatin processes. The depth of the blacks, the delicacy of the grain, and the balance of contrasts give the print a strong material presence, faithful to the photographer’s original intention. The image reflects Hans Silvester’s attentive and rigorous gaze, shaped by a deeply humanist approach.

Each photograph is issued in a strictly limited edition of five prints. The works are preserved and handled according to professional photographic conservation standards, ensuring their long-term stability.

Photograph presented during the exhibition “Silver Silvester”, Galerie Retour de Voyage, April 2026.

Prints remain available for viewing by appointment after the exhibition:

Contact Frédéric: +33 6 87 32 58 68.