PHOTOGRAPHERS

Salvatore Lorenzo Cassar
Photographer
Photographer

Salvatore Lorenzo Cassar

Salvatore Lorenzo Cassar

About

Salvatore Lorenzo Cassar (1855–1928) was a pioneering Maltese photographer whose work offers a vivid portrayal of Maltese life from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. Born in Vittoriosa in December 1855, Cassar honed his photographic skills in Tripoli, Libya, before returning to Malta after 1888 to establish his professional career.

Upon his return, Cassar opened his first studio at No. 1, Strada Carri in Valletta, later expanding to two additional studios on Strada San Giovanni, opposite St John's Co-Cathedral. He was renowned for adopting the most modern photographic techniques of his time, including the use of flashlight photography and "instantaneous" photos, which were groundbreaking during that era. By 1927, he had become the Malta agent for Kodak, reflecting his commitment to innovation in photography.

Cassar's extensive portfolio includes portraits, landscapes, and event photography. He captured significant moments such as King Edward VII's visits to Malta in 1903 and 1909, the proclamation of self-government in 1921, religious feasts, and everyday scenes of Maltese life. His photographs not only document historical events but also provide insight into the social and cultural fabric of the time.

His work was compiled in the volume "Nostalgias of Malta: Images by S.L. Cassar from the 1890s to the 1930s," published in 2008 by Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti. This collection showcases the breadth of his photography, including images of Valletta, Floriana, the Three Cities, and various towns across Malta and Gozo.

Salvatore Lorenzo Cassar passed away in 1928 and is buried at the Addolorata Cemetery in Malta. His legacy endures through his photographs, which continue to serve as a valuable visual record of Malta's history and heritage.

Last photos by Salvatore Lorenzo Cassar

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