The Sapeurs - style in Congo by Héctor Mediavilla, photographer

Héctor Mediavilla is a Spanish photographer interested in the human condition and Man's relationship with the environment. His stories of The Sapeurs of Brazzaville in Congo have their origins in the colonialisation of the country by the French at the beginning of the last century. The images show a real flair for colour and style. I suspect the sapeurs are not well-off, but they still achieve outstanding elegance and dignity.

Sapeurs relax after an independence day parade - image by Héctor Mediavilla

The background of The Sapeurs is explained on Héctor Mediavilla's website, as follows -

...In 1922, Grenard André Matsoua was the first Congolese ever to come back from Paris dressed as a genuine French. His arrival caused indescribable commotion and admiration among his fellow countrymen; he became known as the first Grand Sapeur.

Having the respect and admiration of his community, today’s Sapeurs consider themselves artists. They add a touch of glamour to their humble environment through their refined manners and impeccable dressing styles. Each of them is unique showing a particular repertoire of gestures. They all share the same dream: To go to Paris and return to Brazzaville as an aristocrat of supreme elegance.

I'm very grateful to Héctor Mediavilla for giving permission for me to reproduce these images.

Severin Mouyengo is one of the few sapeurs who is dressed elegantly everyday. 

Basseka Kandza, a sapeur active during his youth in the seventies, died of diabeties in 2007

SAPE: Society of Ambianceurs and Elegant People.