Inside the Bizarre World of a Religious Trade Fair – Feature Shoot

While wandering the streets of Rome, Berlin-based photographer Louis De Belle was intrigued by the abundance of clergy apparel shops surrounding the Vatican, and after some investigation he discovered the religious trade fair which forms the subject of his new photobook, Besides Faith. This biennial fair sees thousands of buyers and traders converge in a transient space in the North East of Italy, to exhibit and sell their religious merchandise – including holy figurines, devotional candles, and haute couture for priests.