Erté, Romain de Tirtoff

(1892-1990)

   Born into an aristocratic family in St. Petersburg Russia, Erté's interests were art and theatre. He is recognized as one of the most notable fashion illustrators and costume designers; his work is easily identified by its stylized designs, exotic fabrics, and strands of beads and ornaments, together with towering and dramatic headwear. In 1912, his family moved to Paris. It was there that Erté illustrated for Paul Poiret and designed costumes, his most notable being for the famous Dutch-born Mata Hari. Erté left Poiret in 1914 due the great demand for his costume work in places such as Monte Carlo, London, Chicago, and New York. He designed for the Hollywood filmmakers and is said to have influenced such greats as Adrian. He illustrated for many publications, including Vogue and Harper's Bazaar.