Josep Masriera facts for kids
Josep Masriera i Manovens (born January 22, 1841, died January 31, 1912) was a talented artist from Barcelona, Spain. He was known for painting beautiful landscapes. He was also a skilled goldsmith, creating amazing jewelry and metal art. Besides his art, he was a successful businessman.
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Early Life and Training
Josep Masriera was born into a family of artists. His father was a silversmith, someone who works with silver. Josep and his brother, Francesc Masriera, learned art from their father first.
After learning from their dad, Josep went to study at a famous art school called the Escola de la Llotja. There, he learned from a teacher named Lluís Rigalt. In 1857, he and his brother became students of Professor Josep Serra i Porsón. Later, he also studied with Claudi Lorenzale.
Family and Further Studies
Josep Masriera got married in 1864. He had five children. One of his sons, Lluís Masriera i Rosés, also became a well-known painter and goldsmith, just like his father.
Soon after getting married, Josep and his brother Francesc traveled to Paris, France. They might have worked with a famous artist named Alexandre Cabanel there. In 1867, Josep went back to the Escola de la Llotja for more advanced classes. He also returned to Paris to see the latest trends in jewelry at a big event called the International Exhibition.
Important Roles and Achievements
Josep Masriera became a respected leader in the art world. In 1869, he was chosen to be the President of the "Guild of Jewellers and Silversmiths." This was a group for people who made jewelry and worked with silver. He also became a secretary for a group that supported local businesses.
In 1873, he was made an Academician at the "Royal Academy of Arts and Natural Sciences." This was a big honor, showing how much his artistic skills were valued.
The Masriera Workshop
Between 1882 and 1884, Josep and his brother Francesc built a very special workshop in Barcelona. It was designed to look like an ancient Roman temple. This building was designed by Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas.
Outside the entrance, there were statues of famous artists, Eduardo Rosales and Marià Fortuny. These statues were made by Josep Reynés. The workshop held the Masriera brothers' amazing art collections. It became a popular place for cultural events, including art shows and plays. Today, the building is a home for nuns.
Writer and Historian
Josep Masriera was not just an artist; he was also a writer. He wrote books about art, including ornamental design, engraving, and even oriental art. He also wrote biographies about his teachers, Lluís Rigalt and Claudi Lorenzale.
For many years, Josep and his friends met every week to create their own "magazine" called El Recuerdo. They never actually published it, but their writings are important. They give us a great look into the art scene in Barcelona during that time.
Legacy
In 1915, after Josep Masriera passed away, his son Lluís suggested a special award. The "Royal Catalan Academy of Fine Arts of Sant Jordi" created the "Josep Masriera Medal." This medal was given to young landscape painters. It was awarded until 1962, keeping Josep Masriera's artistic spirit alive.
See also
In Spanish: José Masriera y Manovens para niños
