Auguste Mestral (1812–1884)

Auguste Mestral was a French photographer born in the city of Lyon in 1812. He was known for his pioneering work in the field of photography, particularly for his contributions to the development of the daguerreotype process.

Mestral began his career as a painter, but soon became interested in the new art of photography. In 1841, he opened a studio in Lyon where he specialised in daguerreotypes, a popular form of photography at the time. He quickly gained a reputation for his high-quality portraits and became one of the most sought-after photographers in France.

Mestral's work was characterised by his attention to detail and his use of natural light. He was known for his ability to capture the essence of his subjects, whether they were famous or ordinary people. His portraits were often praised for their realism and ability to convey the personality of the subject.

In addition to his portrait work, Mestral also photographed landscapes and cityscapes. He was particularly interested in capturing the beauty of his hometown of Lyon, and many of his photographs depict the city's historic architecture and scenic vistas.

Mestral's contributions to photography were recognised during his lifetime and he received numerous awards and honours for his work. He died in 1884, but his legacy lives on through his photographs, which continue to be admired for their beauty and technical excellence.