Luis Leon Masson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Luis Leon Masson
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| Born |
Louis François Léon Masson
July 31, 1825 |
| Died | April 4, 1882 (aged 56) |
| Nationality | French |
| Known for | Photography |
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Notable work
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Luis Leon Masson (born Louis François Leon Masson y Besneé) was a very important photographer. He was born in Tours, France, on July 31, 1825. His father, Nicolás François Masson, was a transporter, and his mother was Louise Sophie Besneé. Luis Masson became famous for his amazing photos of Spain. He especially loved taking pictures of beautiful buildings and landscapes in cities like Seville. He also photographed famous paintings by artists like Murillo.
Becoming a Photographer in Spain
Luis Masson moved to Seville, Spain, in May 1858. He changed his name to the Spanish version, Luis Masson. His wife, Lorenza Simonin Berard, helped him with his photography work. For the next eight years, he took many pictures of Seville.
He focused on famous places like the Alcázar, the cathedral, and the Casa de Pilatos. He also photographed the Palace of San Telmo for the Duke of Montpensier. The Duke became an important client for him.
Luis Masson also traveled a lot to take pictures in other cities. He visited Granada, Córdoba, Málaga, and Cádiz. He collected these photos in albums and as stereoscopies (3D images). In 1866, he moved to Madrid for a short time. He also visited Toledo, Ávila, Valladolid, Salamanca, and Burgos. He captured many interesting images from these cities. He returned to Seville in the late 1870s.
Recognized for His Work
Luis Masson's photography was highly respected. He received special recognition for his talent.
- The London World's Fair (1862)
- The Society of French Photography (1863)
Where to Find His Photos
More than 500 of Luis Masson's photographs have been found. All of them were taken in Spain. Many of his works are kept in famous places.
You can find his photos at the Bibliothèque nationale de France. The Victoria and Albert Museum and the British Library also have his pictures. The Société française de photographie and the Museum of the University of Navarra also hold his works. Some of his photos are also in private collections. This includes the collection belonging to the family of the Duke of Montpensier.
