Francisco Martínez Yago facts for kids

Francisco Martínez Yago; portrait by his son (c.1867)

Francisco Martínez Yago (born November 2, 1814, in Paiporta; died January 19, 1895, in Valencia) was a talented Spanish painter. He was also the father of another famous artist, Salvador Martínez Cubells. Francisco Martínez Yago is known for his beautiful paintings and for his important work restoring old artworks.

Early Life and Art Studies

Francisco Martínez Yago began his art journey by studying with a painter named Francisco Grau [es]. He later continued his studies with Francisco Llácer Valdermont and Miguel Parra Abril. During this time, he was a student at the famous Academia de San Carlos. He worked very hard and won several awards for his art.

Becoming an Academician

In 1844, the Academia de San Carlos recognized Francisco's talent. They named him a "supernumerary Academician" for painting. This meant he was a special member, almost like an extra expert. Three years later, he received the same title for history painting. In 1848, he became the Academia's Concierge. This was an important role, helping to manage the academy.

Famous Artworks and Commissions

Most of Francisco Martínez Yago's paintings were made for specific people or groups. He painted a portrait of Bruno of Cologne for the Jesuit Church. He also created a painting of the Assumption of Mary for a church in Torrente. He even painted several works based on ancient Greek stories for a person called Count Parsent.

A Master of Restoration

After 1880, Francisco decided to focus mainly on restoring old paintings. This is a very important job that helps to preserve art for future generations. He restored 54 paintings at the Valencia Cathedral. He also worked on fourteen paintings in the San Andrés church. Many works by the famous painter Juan de Juanes were also restored by him. Francisco Martínez Yago even did restoration work in countries like France and England.