1. Origins-family

We have no information concerning the early years of Michail Masganas’ life and the identity of his parents. We only know he was born during the first half of the 18^th century in Smyrna. From the French consulate’s archives we learn he was a protégé of the French consulate from his childhood. The consul Fontenu sent him to Marseilles to study surgery at the royal hospital.¹ About his family life we only know that he was married and had children. His grandson Michail Masganas was also a famous doctor in Smyrna during the 19^th century.

2. Professional career

In 1741 Masganas returned to Smyrna and served for five years in the French hospital. Στεργέλλης, Α.Π., «Το πρόβλημα των προσηλυτισμών στη Μικρά Ασία με αφορμή τη Φιλεκπαιδευτική Εταιρεία Σμύρνης», Δελτίο Κέντρου Μικρασιατικών Σπουδών 10 (1993-1994), σελ. 220-221.In 1746 he opened his own surgery in the city. During his whole life he had privileged relationships with the French community of Smyrna, offering his services there. More specifically, he would negotiate the purchase of archaeological artefacts which were then shipped to French museums.² Masganas never severed his relations with the Greek Orthodox community. He was a surgeon of the Greek Hospital of Smyrna for many years. He was also a distinguished member of the Greek Orthodox community of the city. He died in Smyrna during the second half of the 18^th century.