Francesc Miralles i Galaup facts for kids
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Francesc Miralles i Galaup (born April 6, 1848, in Valencia – died October 30, 1901, in Barcelona) was a Spanish painter. He was famous for his realistic paintings of everyday life among wealthy people.
About Francesc Miralles
Francesc Miralles grew up in a family that owned several businesses. When he was five, his family moved to Barcelona. In 1855, he started attending a private Catholic school called Maristes Valldemia in Mataró.
While at school, Francesc loved to draw in his notebooks. He soon realized he wanted to be an artist. His parents, however, hoped he would join the family business. But after seeing him draw on important papers in his father's office, they agreed to let him follow his dream. In 1862, he began studying art with Ramon Martí Alsina. Francesc quickly showed a strong interest in painting people, even though his teacher preferred landscapes.
Studying Art in Paris
When Francesc turned eighteen, his parents allowed him to study in Paris. They also helped him with money. He stayed in Paris until 1893, visiting home sometimes. In his first years there, he copied famous artworks at the Louvre museum. He might have also worked briefly with a well-known artist named Alexandre Cabanel. Later, he had small art studios in areas like Montmartre.
Francesc regularly showed his paintings at the Salon in Paris. He also exhibited his work at the Sala Parés back in Barcelona. He became a client of a famous art dealer called Goupil & Cie. This helped him sell his paintings to rich buyers across Europe and America. This was a great relief for his family. They had lost much of their money in 1866 and were worried about supporting him. In fact, his family later moved to Paris so he could help them financially.
Returning to Barcelona
Francesc suffered from a long-term cough. After his parents passed away, he decided to move back to Barcelona. He hoped the warmer weather would help his health. His sister Carmen had already moved back to Barcelona after getting married. So, Francesc had no family left in Paris. Some people also whispered that his painting style was becoming old-fashioned.
Whatever the reason, he arrived in Barcelona in 1893. His home soon became a popular meeting spot for artists and creative people. He continued to show his art at the Salon in Paris. However, his later paintings were not as successful as his earlier ones. To help him get back on his feet, his brother-in-law, Salvador Andreu, helped him get a special job. Francesc was asked to paint the ceiling of a new concert hall at the Liceu.
Francesc never fully recovered from the loss of his mother. By 1898, his sister Carmen was very worried about him. He was becoming more isolated, and his health was getting worse. Salvador agreed that something needed to be done. He convinced Francesc to live in a small house next to theirs. This way, Francesc would have more company. But his health continued to decline. One day, his family found him lying in front of his easel. He had passed away from what seemed to be a heart attack.
See also
In Spanish: Francisco Miralles para niños
