Lorenzo Casanova Ruiz was a distinguished Spanish painter renowned for his costumbrista (genre) scenes, historical compositions, and lasting contributions as a teacher. His career reflected both artistic achievement and dedication to nurturing the next generation of Spanish painters.
Education and Training
Born in Alcoy on 14 March 1844, Casanova studied at the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Carlos in Valencia. Despite financial hardship, his talent earned him a grant from the Diputación Provincial de Alicante, enabling him to continue his studies at the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando in Madrid under the celebrated painter Federico de Madrazo.
Italian Sojourn
In 1873, Casanova received a stipend to study in Italy, where he joined the Accademia Chigiana. Immersed in its rich artistic culture, he produced works regularly exhibited at Spain’s National Exhibition of Fine Arts. Even after his stipend ended, he remained for two more years, supporting himself entirely through painting.
Teaching and Influence
After returning to Alicante in 1879, Casanova established the Academia de Casanova, training future artists including Lorenzo Aguirre and Fernando Cabrera Cantó. He later served as Director of the local School of Fine Arts and, in 1894, organised a regional art exposition that strengthened Alicante’s role in Spain’s cultural life.
Recognition and Personal Life
Casanova’s artistic and educational contributions were recognised with his appointment as a Knight of the Order of Isabella the Catholic and membership in the Academia de San Fernando. He married María Teresa Miró Moltó, aunt of the poet Gabriel Miró, intertwining his legacy with Spain’s literary heritage.
Legacy
Casanova died on 23 March 1900. His paintings, admired for their historical depth and genre detail, remain highly collectable. Today, his works continue to appear in galleries, antique collections, and online marketplaces, securing his reputation as one of the influential figures of 19th-century Spanish painting.
