Antony Armstrong-Jones, also known as Lord Snowdon, was a British photographer, film-maker, designer, and inventor. He gained fame for his portraits of iconic figures such as Princess Diana, David Bowie, and Elizabeth Taylor. His work is showcased in the prestigious National Portrait Gallery in London. Additionally, Armstrong-Jones directed the award-winning documentary film ‘Don’t Count the Candles’ in 1968, which garnered two Emmy Awards. His contributions to the field of photography were recognized with honors such as the Progress Medal and Honorary Fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society. In 1971, he was granted a patent for his invention of an electric wheelchair. Armstrong-Jones’s achievements were further acknowledged with an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Bath in 1989.
Quick Facts
- Nick Name: Lord Snowdon
- Also Known As: Antony Charles Robert Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon
- Died At Age: 86
- Family:
- Spouse/Ex-: Countess of Snowdon (m. 1960–1978), Lucy Hogg (m. 1978–2000), Princess Margaret
- Father: Ronald Armstrong-Jones
- Mother: Anne
- Children: David Armstrong-Jones; 2nd Earl of Snowdon, Jasper Cable-Alexander, Lady Frances Armstrong-Jones, Lady Frances von Hofmannsthal, Lady Sarah Chatto, Polly Fry
- Philanthropists
- Portrait Photographers
- Died on: January 13, 2017
- Place of death: Kensington, London, England
- Notable Alumni: Jesus College, Cambridge
- More Facts
- Education: Eton College, University Of Cambridge, Jesus College, Cambridge
- Awards: Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order, Emmy Award
Childhood & Early Life
Antony Armstrong-Jones was born on March 7, 1930, in Belgravia, London, England. He came from a family of famous personalities. His paternal grandfather, Sir Robert Armstrong-Jones, was a well-known psychiatrist and physician, while his maternal uncle, Oliver Messel, was a renowned stage designer. His father, Ronald Armstrong-Jones, worked as a barrister. Antony was the only son from his father’s first marriage with Anne Messel, who later became Countess of Rosse. His parents divorced in 1935 when he was just five years old. During his childhood, Antony contracted polio while on holiday at his family’s country home in Wales. He attended Sandroyd School and Eton College, where he excelled in boxing. He then went on to study at Jesus College, Cambridge, where he was a coxswain for the winning boat in the 1950 Boat Race.
Career
Antony Armstrong-Jones started his career as a photographer, setting up a studio in his London flat. He gained recognition when British magazine Tatler began buying his portraits and giving him credit for his work. He went on to work for other magazines such as Queen and The Sunday Times Magazine, showcasing his versatility by capturing fashion and documentary images. In 1957, he received a major breakthrough when he was commissioned to photograph Queen Elizabeth II and her family. This photograph, known for its romanticism, established him as a renowned photographer. He continued to photograph famous personalities and his portraits were published in magazines like Vanity Fair, Vogue, and The Daily Telegraph. In addition to his photography career, he also ventured into film-making, directing several films. However, his photography career overshadowed his work in film-making. In the early 2000s, his portraits were widely used and displayed in exhibitions across Britain.
Other Important Works
Antony Armstrong-Jones was not only a photographer but also an inventor and designer. He played a significant role in designing the Snowdon Aviary, a famous structure in London Zoo. He also invented a type of electric wheelchair, which was granted a patent. He was involved in philanthropic works through his charity organization, Snowdon Trust, which provided scholarships for disabled students. He served as a patron for various organizations and contributed to the arts as the President of the British Theatre Museum. He also worked as a provost at the Royal College of Art.
Earldom & Other Honors
After marrying Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon, Antony Armstrong-Jones was inducted into the House of Lords as the Earl of Snowdon. He delivered a speech addressing the difficulties faced by disabled people in their everyday life. He received honors such as The Royal Victorian Order and various awards from the Royal Photographic Society. He was also awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws by the University of Bath.
Personal Life
Antony Armstrong-Jones got engaged to Princess Margaret in 1960 and they married later that year. They had two children together. However, their marriage faced difficulties due to Margaret’s partying and Armstrong-Jones’ infidelity. Reports of his bisexuality and multiple affairs surfaced. After their divorce in 1978, Armstrong-Jones married Lucy Mary. They had a daughter together.
Death & Legacy
Antony Armstrong-Jones passed away on January 13, 2017. His funeral took place at St Baglan’s Church in Llanfaglan near Caernarfon. His photographs are housed at the National Portrait Gallery in London, and his charity organization, Snowdon Trust, continues to operate. His daughter, Lady Frances, is involved in the organization as a board member.