Antoni Esplugas: From Painter to Pioneering Photographer October 14 2022

People might say Antoni Esplugas' destiny was becoming a great artist. Born Antoni Esplugas Puig on April 26, 1852, the son of a painter, Antoni Esplugas Gual, and a drawing teacher, Mariana Puig Battle of Villanova, Antoni Esplugas began painting as a youngster.

[IMAGE] Antoni Esplugas by Spanish cartoonist Ramon Escaler (1888)

He might have become a famous painter if he had continued on that path. However, Esplugas chose another art form as his vocation. He used his artistic talents to become one of the most respected photographers of his time.

Espluga would marry Rosa Generes, and a year later, in 1876, he opened a photographic studio or workshop in Barcelona's Plaza del Teatro Seven. A photographer specializing in portraits, Esplugas later moved his studio to number two in the same area. Esplugas was one of many photographers who operated successful studios or workshops in Barcelona, Spain, during the mid-to-late nineteenth century.

A MULTI-TALENTED PHOTOGRAPHER

Antoni Esplugas became one of the primary photographers in Catalonia, with locations in the Passeig de Gracia. He rose to prominence as a photographer and was the beneficiary of numerous accolades and awards, leading to increased private commissions.

[CLICKABLE IMAGE] Cabinet-style photograph of the famous Italian soprano Emma Carelli (1877-1928) by Antoni Esplugas

As a result of his reputation for excellence, his services were in high demand. Esplugas photographed many celebrities and notable people of his time, including bull fighters, dancers, and singers.

Creative and bold for his day, Antonio Esplugas also photographed erotic nudes and was known for his ability to capture still images in a storytelling style. One might describe him as an early photojournalist. The photographer had a penchant for capturing moods and vibes that still beckon admirers to find meaning as they gaze at his works.

AN INNOVATOR AMONG THE CATALAN PHOTOGRAPHERS

The Universal Exposition in Barcelona between April and December 1888 welcomed over two million visitors from several countries and was the site of one of Esplugas' most memorable shots.

From the captive balloon at the exhibition, the photographer took pictures, popularizing aerial photography and gaining notoriety as a pioneer in aerial photography in Spain.

[CLICKABLE IMAGE] Vintage cabinet photograph of the Italian mezzo-soprano Virginia Guerrini (1871-1948) by A. Esplugas

Grup d'fants a la Platja de la Barceloneta—Group of Children Playing on the Beach is another of his significant works. An artist and entrepreneur, Esplugas made prints of artwork, photographed panoramic views, and sold cards and postcards featuring his work. He sought ways to improve his photography by incorporating the latest techniques from contemporaries, in cities like Paris and Vienna, in his work.

A LEGACY OF DISTINCTION

Antoni Esplugas became a photographer for the Royal House. He was honored with the Cross of the Order of Isabella the Catholic for creating a snapshot in one-quarter of a second. These prestigious accolades precipitated his move to Paseo de Gracia, the hub of photographic companies at that time.

[CLICKABLE IMAGE] Spanish soprano Fausta Labia (1870-1935) captured by the lens of Antoni Esplugas

He also received awards at the Barcelona, Paris, and London exhibitions. His was one of the most significant photography businesses in Catalonia, joining the ranks of Pablo Audouard and the Napoleon Photographic Company and at one point employing 13 people. Esplugas was also instrumental in the creation of a photographic museum.

Esplugas died on March 25, 1929, but no doubt left an indelible and distinguishing mark as one of his era's prolific and highly-esteemed photographers. Those who appreciate photography and the work of this beloved artist can see his work at the National Archive of Catalonia, which is the home of thousands of his photographs.

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