Napoleon Sarony: Celebrity Photographer

MCNY Blog: New York Stories

 

Before paparazzi and the celebrity media we all live with today, there were 19th century photographers, like Napoleon Sarony (1821-1896), who became internationally renowned for their celebrity portraits. Born in Québec, Sarony began his career in the lithography industry – he worked and learned his trade while employed by Currier and Ives – and eventually even set up his own lithography shop. After a stint in Europe to study art and learn photography he came back to New York in 1865 and opened his first photography studio near 630 Broadway. Over the years, he moved his studio several times.

 

 

 

He quickly became a part of the art scene and was a founding member of the Salmagundi Club and a member of the Tile Club. He became noted for a groundbreaking lighting style and was admired for his background sets and accessories. Most importantly, he was able to position his subjects so they’re…

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