Perhaps you’ve never heard of Antonio Manso. But his work touched the lives of millions. This plaque commemorates a remarkable artist. It honors Antonio Manso Fernández. He was a master engraver from Madrid.
Antonio Manso was born in Madrid in 1934. He died in 1993. Manso was considered the best engraver in the world. He excelled in the difficult buril technique.
Manso’s artistic skill is seen on banknotes. He designed the front of the 100 peseta notes. These notes featured Falla and Bécquer. He also designed 1000 peseta notes. These honored San Isidoro, Carlos III and Antonio Cánovas del Castillo. Plus, he worked on the 5000 peseta note. It featured King Juan Carlos.
In 1949, Antonio Manso joined the National School of Graphic Arts. He studied engraving, drawing and photography. His teachers included Manuel Castro-Gil and José Luis Sánchez Toda. He formed lasting friendships with them. He also began training at the National Mint. This is now the Royal Mint. He studied while finishing his Bachillerato. He also studied Drawing and Engraving. Later, he attended the San Fernando School of Fine Arts.
Antonio Manso dedicated his career to the Mint’s Engraving section. In 1989, he became the Chief Engraver. He also taught at the School of Graphic Arts. He taught at the Engraving School. The Mint Foundation created this school. It aimed to preserve the art of engraving. Manso turned banknotes and stamps into art. They became symbols of culture and history.
Madrid recognized Antonio Manso’s contributions. The City Council put up this commemorative plaque. It honors his work and character.
Antonio Manso engraved landscapes and portraits. He also engraved historical monuments. He found inspiration in everyday life. Many of his works are held by the Mint. They published a book about him. It’s called Antonio Manso. Engraver. 1934-1993. In 1998, they issued a stamp honoring his work.
Antonio Manso died of a heart attack in 1993. He was a great artist. He was a dedicated teacher. This Antonio Manso Plaque ensures he will not be forgotten. It celebrates his life and legacy in Madrid.