Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen

Theophile Alexandre Steinlen (fr. Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen; November 10, 1859, Lausanne — December 14, 1923, Paris) — French artist, graphic artist and illustrator of Swiss origin, who worked in both the realistic and Art Nouveau styles, "chronicler of the life of the Parisian proletariat." T.A. Steinlen became famous for his Parisian posters created around 1900, his scenes from the nightlife of Montmartre and, of course, his "cat" paintings and graphics that made his name. Other facets of the artist's talent are less well known: his paintings, sculptures and graphics dedicated to events The First World War, especially the events in Serbia and Belgium. Steinlen was self-taught, and nevertheless, the heir to a rich artistic tradition. His works are influenced by the work of Delacroix, Daumier, Dore and Manet. The spread and popularity that Steinlen's works had in Paris during the Belle Epoque made the artist a central figure in European art at the beginning of the 20th century; they became a source of inspiration for numerous avant-garde masters, including Picasso