Belle Epoque Paris had a growing problem with poverty, violence and street gangs. The term ‘Apaches’ appeared misguidedly in the press to describe their ruthless behaviour after an attack in 1898.

The reporter of the incident was obsessed with the American Wild West and the resultant frenzy for Apache headlines in the papers inspired a group of artists and composers who formed the Societé des Apaches in 1900.

The gang’s brutality was oddly as attention grabbing as their fashion sense – a dandy look of silk scarves and ornate weaponry.

By the First World War, whilst the gang died out, their lasting reputation, was seen in dances, film and literature, continuing well into the 20th century