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negretti and zambra

1850 - 1985

Quick Facts

  • Top 3 works: The Miraculous Draught of Fishes\n\n(Main View)
  • Copyright status: Under copyright
  • Top-ranked work: The Miraculous Draught of Fishes\n\n(Main View)
  • Museums on APS:
    • J. Paul Getty Museum
    • J. Paul Getty Museum
    • J. Paul Getty Museum
    • J. Paul Getty Museum
    • J. Paul Getty Museum
  • Also known as: negretti & zambra
  • Nationality: United Kingdom
  • More…
  • Lifespan: 135 years
  • Art period: 19th Century
  • Born: 1850, London, United Kingdom
  • Works on APS: 1
  • Died: 1985

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
Sarah Biffin was notable for being a celebrated artist born without arms or legs. What medium did she primarily specialize in?
Question 2:
In what year did the Royal Academy Exhibition, a pivotal event in art history, open at the National Gallery?
Question 3:
Which of the following best describes Peter Roos's artistic focus?
Question 4:
During which period did Sarah Biffin primarily work as an artist?
Question 5:
What was a significant aspect of Sarah Biffin's early career that brought her attention?

early beginnings (1850)

, a company founded by henry negretti and joseph zambra in 1850, left an indelible mark on the world of scientific instrumentation and photography. based in london, this innovative enterprise not only produced cutting-edge optical instruments but also operated a photographic studio, capturing the essence of the era.

appointments and royal patronage

negretti and zambra were appointed opticians and scientific instrument makers to her majesty queen victoria, prince albert, and king edward vii. this prestigious appointment underscored their commitment to excellence and precision. their work extended to the royal observatory and the british admiralty, further solidifying their reputation.

photographic achievements

the company's photographic studio was equally renowned, with notable projects including:
  • , a testament to their storytelling through photography.
  • a sponsored photographic expedition to egypt, nubia, and ethiopia, conducted by francis frith, which showcased their support for exploratory endeavors.
  • publication of "a treatise on meteorological instruments" in 1865, highlighting their scholarly contributions.

legacy and acquisition (1985)

in 1985, negretti and zambra was acquired by the avionics company meggitt, marking a new chapter in their history. this transition did not diminish the significance of their past achievements but rather ensured the continuation of their legacy.

artistic and scientific heritage

negretti and zambra's impact on both photography and scientific instrumentation is undeniable. their work, now part of the collection at , serves as a reminder of the pivotal role they played in shaping these fields. key dates: - 1850: founding of negretti and zambra - 1865: publication of "a treatise on meteorological instruments" - 1985: acquisition by meggitt