Jacques-Henri Lartigue

Jacques-Henri Lartigue (1894-1986) was a renowned French photographer known for his extensive documentation of everyday life and his mastery in capturing fleeting moments. Born into a wealthy family in Courbevoie, France, Lartigue began photography at the age of seven, using a camera given to him by his father. His photographs depicted his privileged upbringing, family vacations, and the glamorous worlds of sports and fashion. Lartigue’s talent was initially recognized by his family and close friends, but his work gained wider acclaim in 1963 when his photographs were exhibited at MoMA in New York. He continued to photograph and exhibit his work throughout his life, leaving behind a vast archive of over 100,000 images that captured the essence of 20th century France. Lartigue’s photographs continue to be celebrated for their charm, spontaneity, and unique perspective on the human experience.