The gaucho is an iconic symbol of the romantic ideal of a love for freedom and the untamed landscape. With his camera, the renowned Argentine artist Aldo Sessa spent months tirelessly traveling across his country, reaching even its most remote corners, sparing no effort or sacrifice to follow and document the traces of these unique nomadic horsemen who preserve Argentina’s traditions.

Silently, without distracting them, Sessa captured the gauchos in every aspect of their traditional daily life – around 50,000 images in total – each shot fulfilling a promise to Juan José Güiraldes, the legendary Argentine writer, aviator, and founding president of the Gaucho Confederation, to preserve their spirit through time.

The striking volume Gauchos: Icons of Argentina by Assouline captivates readers with compelling imagery and detailed depictions of traditional gaucho clothing and equipment, alongside distinctive portraits of men of all ages and their loyal equine companions.

Photos Courtesy of Assouline