Although Leonetto Cappiello was born more than 100 years ago in France, he was famous for his unique and innovative poster designs. He is sometimes referred to as the "Father of Modern Advertising." He was the first poster artist to incorporate figures on black backgrounds, as seen in "Absinthe Extra Superior" and "Cinzano 1920." It was a fresh, vivid style that drew a great deal of attention and acclaim.
He had no formal art training and in his early years worked as an illustrator for a variety of French journals. When posters became the rage in the early 20th century, Cappiello became famous and prolific, painting more than 500 posters! Today his work is still prized by collectors and dealers around the world.
