Deaths on January 13

Antony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon, English photographer and filmmaker (b. 1930)

Antony Charles Robert Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon, born on March 7, 1930, and passing away on January 13, 2017, was a truly transformative figure in British photography and documentary filmmaking. An individual who carved his own path despite his aristocratic connections, Snowdon became widely recognized for his distinctive, often intimate, portraits that captured the essence of numerous prominent international figures, establishing him as a pivotal artistic voice of the 20th century.

Lord Snowdon's Enduring Photographic Legacy

Lord Snowdon’s most enduring legacy lies in his prolific and groundbreaking photographic work. He revolutionized portraiture with a style characterized by its candidness, informality, and a remarkable ability to capture the authentic personality of his subjects. Moving away from the stiff, formal portraits prevalent at the time, Snowdon often utilized natural light and unconventional settings, lending an unprecedented sense of intimacy and spontaneity to his work.

Notable Subjects and Prestigious Publications

His lens captured an extraordinary array of global personalities, from royalty and politicians to artists, actors, and fashion icons. Among those he famously photographed were Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, Sir Laurence Olivier, Marlene Dietrich, Jack Nicholson, and many other luminaries, each portrait revealing a unique facet of their public and private personas. His compelling images were regularly featured in prestigious publications across the globe, including the British and American editions of Vogue, Vanity Fair, The Daily Telegraph Magazine, and significantly, The Sunday Times Magazine, where he worked as a staff photographer and artistic advisor for many years. His work for Punch magazine, sometimes published under the pseudonym ‘Snooty Fox,’ also showcased his versatility and sharp wit.

Permanent Collections and Exhibitions

The profound impact of his photography is underscored by its presence in major art institutions. Over 100 of his iconic photographs are held in the permanent collections of the National Portrait Gallery in London, a testament to his significant contribution to British portraiture. This extensive collection provides a comprehensive overview of his career, from his early experimental work to his later, more refined compositions. His work has also been exhibited internationally in numerous galleries, further cementing his reputation as a master of his craft and ensuring that his unique vision continues to influence contemporary photography.

Contributions to Filmmaking

Beyond still photography, Antony Armstrong-Jones also made significant contributions as a documentary filmmaker. He directed several influential films for the BBC, often using his platform to shed light on social issues and the lives of marginalized communities. Notably, his 1969 film "Don't Forget the Lonely Hearts" explored the often-overlooked lives of elderly individuals, while "Broken Bodies" (1975) focused with empathy on the challenges faced by people with disabilities. His filmmaking showcased a profound empathy and a commitment to using visual media for social commentary, extending his artistic vision beyond static images.

The Royal Marriage to Princess Margaret

In 1960, Antony Armstrong-Jones entered a union that would dramatically thrust him into the global spotlight: his marriage to Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II. This event was historically significant, as he was the first commoner in over 450 years to marry directly into the British Royal Family, capturing immense public and media fascination. Following their marriage, he was created the 1st Earl of Snowdon and Viscount Linley of Nymans in the County of Sussex in 1961, formally entering the British peerage.

Their marriage, though initially celebrated as a modern union between royalty and a creative commoner, faced intense public scrutiny and personal challenges. It produced two children, David Armstrong-Jones, 2nd Earl of Snowdon (born Viscount Linley), and Lady Sarah Chatto (née Armstrong-Jones). While his connection to the Royal Family provided unparalleled access for his photographic work, it also brought unique pressures and public attention. After 18 years, the marriage ended in divorce in 1978, a highly publicized event that marked a significant moment for the Royal Family, as it was the first royal divorce since Henry VIII.

Beyond Photography and Royalty: Design and Advocacy

While celebrated for his photography and his royal connection, Lord Snowdon’s diverse talents extended into design and advocacy. He was a keen inventor and designer, perhaps most famously contributing to the design of the distinctive Snowdon Aviary at the London Zoo. This innovative structure, completed in 1964, was groundbreaking for its walk-through design, allowing visitors to enter the birds' environment and experience a more immersive interaction with nature.

Furthermore, throughout his life, Lord Snowdon was a dedicated advocate for people with disabilities, a cause he championed passionately. Having contracted polio in his youth, which left him with a limp, his personal experience undoubtedly shaped his compassionate approach to this cause. He served as a trustee for the Polio Research Fund and actively promoted better access and opportunities for disabled individuals, tirelessly working to raise awareness and improve their lives.

Antony Armstrong-Jones left an indelible mark as a multidisciplinary talent who seamlessly blended artistic innovation with public service. His unique eye for composition, his ability to capture raw emotion, and his commitment to social causes ensure his enduring legacy as one of the most compelling and versatile figures of his generation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lord Snowdon

Who was Antony Armstrong-Jones, the 1st Earl of Snowdon?

Antony Charles Robert Armstrong-Jones (1930–2017), known as Lord Snowdon, was a highly influential British photographer and documentary filmmaker. He gained international acclaim for his distinctive portrait photography and his marriage to Princess Margaret, the sister of Queen Elizabeth II.

What was Lord Snowdon best known for?

He was primarily celebrated for his candid and insightful portraits of world notables, including royalty, politicians, and celebrities, published in major magazines like Vogue, Vanity Fair, and The Sunday Times Magazine. He was also recognized for his contributions to documentary filmmaking and his innovative design work, such as the Snowdon Aviary at London Zoo.

What was his connection to the British Royal Family?

Lord Snowdon was married to Princess Margaret, the only sibling of Queen Elizabeth II, from 1960 to 1978. Their marriage was historically significant as he was the first commoner in over 450 years to marry directly into the British Royal Family, and he was subsequently created the 1st Earl of Snowdon.

Are his photographs held in any major collections?

Yes, over 100 of his iconic photographs are part of the permanent collections at the National Portrait Gallery in London, a significant testament to his legacy in British portraiture. His work is also held and exhibited in other notable galleries worldwide.

Did Lord Snowdon contribute to social causes?

Absolutely. Lord Snowdon was a dedicated advocate for people with disabilities throughout his life, having experienced polio himself. He worked to raise awareness, improve access, and promote opportunities for disabled individuals, often through his documentary filmmaking.