Édouard-Henri Avril

French painter of erotic art

Édouard-Henri Avril - French painter of erotic art
Born

May 21st, 1849
176 years ago

Died

July 28th, 1928
97 years ago — 79 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

France

Links & References

A painter born in France, recognized for illustrations and paintings that explored themes of eroticism and sensuality. Worked extensively in the genre of book illustrations, contributing to publications such as 'Les Fleurs du mal' by Charles Baudelaire. His style often integrated elements of fantasy and realism, which reflected the social attitudes of his time. Avril's artworks frequently depicted mythological and historical subjects, intertwined with explicit themes. His works continue to be studied for their artistic significance and commentary on 19th-century society.

Illustrated 'Les Fleurs du mal' by Charles Baudelaire

Created works that featured erotic themes

Produced numerous illustrations for various publications

Other People Born on May 21st

Līga Dekmeijere

Latvian tennis player, 2003 Wimbledon
Born
May 21st, 1983 42 years ago

Competed professionally in tennis, representing Latvia in various international tournaments. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of 76 in 2003, becoming the first Latvian woman to reach the main draw of Wimbledon. Participated in the doubles competitions at Grand Slam events, including the Australian Open and US Open. Played for the Latvian national team in the Fed Cup.

Continue Reading

Josh Hamilton

Baseball player and 2010 AL MVP
Born
May 21st, 1981 44 years ago

A former professional baseball player, achieved prominence in Major League Baseball. Played primarily as an outfielder for the Cincinnati Reds, Texas Rangers, and Los Angeles Angels. Gained attention for exceptional batting skills and powerful hitting. Made a significant impact during tenure with the Texas Rangers, where achieved multiple All-Star selections and won the American League Most Valuable Player Award in 2010. Recognized for contributions to the Rangers, including notable performances in the postseason. Struggled with personal challenges throughout career, which garnered public attention.

Continue Reading

Gotye

Singer-songwriter with 'Somebody That I Used to Know'
Born
May 21st, 1980 45 years ago

A Belgian-Australian singer-songwriter gained prominence with the hit single 'Somebody That I Used to Know' in 2011. The song topped the charts in multiple countries and received numerous accolades, including the Grammy Award for Record of the Year. Besides the success of the single, multiple albums were released, showcasing a unique blend of genres including pop, rock, and electronica. The artist is also recognized for innovative music production and visual artistry, earning a loyal fan base through engaging performances and distinct musical style.

Continue Reading

Ernst Messerschmid

German physicist and astronaut
Born
May 21st, 1945 80 years ago

A physicist specialized in experimental physics and space exploration. Participated in the D-2 Spacelab mission aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1985. Conducted multiple experiments in microgravity focused on fluid physics and material science. Contributed to the development of scientific instruments for future space missions. Engaged in academic roles post-retirement, sharing knowledge in physics and engineering.

Continue Reading

Elizabeth Fry

Prison reformer and philanthropist
Born
May 21st, 1780 245 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1845 180 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent English prison reformer and philanthropist, focused on improving conditions for female prisoners. Actively worked in the early 19th century to advocate for humane treatment and rehabilitation strategies. Documented the appalling conditions within prisons through reports and founded initiatives to provide education and employment opportunities for incarcerated women. Played a significant role in the establishment of nursing and aid programs within the penal system.

Continue Reading

William P. Sprague

American banker and politician
Born
May 21st, 1827 198 years ago
Died
1899 126 years ago — 72 years old

Elected as a U.S. Senator from Rhode Island, served from 1863 to 1869. Held the position of Governor of Rhode Island, contributing to state governance during a period of economic change and post-Civil War recovery. Founded and operated banks in the state, influencing local financial practices. Participated in various civic initiatives aimed at economic development.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 28th

Shi Jingtang

Emperor of Later Jin dynasty
Born
March 30th, 892 1133 years ago
Died
July 28th, 942 1083 years ago — 50 years old

Ruled as the emperor of the Later Jin dynasty from 936 until his death in 942. Ascended the throne after overthrowing the Later Tang dynasty, which marked a significant transition in Chinese history during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. His reign is characterized by military maneuvers and consolidation of power, as well as struggles against rival states. Shi established the dynasty as a key player in regional politics, although it faced numerous challenges from other factions.

Continue Reading

Jill Esmond

English actress in theatre and film
Born
January 26th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1990 35 years ago — 82 years old

An accomplished English actress, active in theatre and film during the mid-20th century. Gained prominence in the 1930s and 1940s, known for notable performances on stage and screen. Appeared in the film adaptation of 'The Laughing Lady' and the television series 'The Third Man'. Formed a prominent part of the British theatrical scene, working with well-respected companies and directors.

Continue Reading

Johann Sebastian Bach

Baroque composer and organist
Born
March 21st, 1685 340 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1750 275 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1685, a German composer and musician, he played a crucial role in the development of Western music. His works encompass various forms, including cantatas, concertos, and fugues, showcasing intricate counterpoint and harmony. Employed as a court organist and later as the director of music at St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, he contributed to the establishment of the cantata as a musical form. His significant compositions include 'The Well-Tempered Clavier', 'Brandenburg Concertos', and 'Mass in B minor', which remain staples in the classical repertoire. The influence of this composer's work on future generations has been profound.

Continue Reading

Cyrano de Bergerac

French author and playwright
Born
March 6th, 1619 406 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1655 370 years ago — 36 years old

An author and playwright from France, produced significant works in the 17th century. Notably contributed to the genre of science fiction with writings that explored themes of space travel and philosophical ideas. The works featured sharp wit and social commentary. The most recognized play, 'Cyrano de Bergerac', revolves around the complexities of love and the struggles of an eloquent swordsman. These literary contributions highlighted both romantic and satirical elements.

Continue Reading

Henry Bennet

English politician and diplomat
Born
1618 407 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1685 340 years ago — 67 years old

1st Earl of Arlington served as Secretary of State for the Southern Department during the reign of Charles II. Played a significant role in restoring the monarchy after the English Civil War. Managed various diplomatic affairs and represented English interests in international matters. Engaged in the secret negotiations that eventually led to the Treaty of Dover in 1670, solidifying the alliance between England and France. His tenure was marked by involvement in colonial policies and support for the establishment of the Royal African Company.

Continue Reading

Rodrigo de Bastidas

Spanish explorer, founder of Santa Marta
Born
1460 565 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1527 498 years ago — 67 years old

An early Spanish explorer and navigator, significant for conducting expeditions along the coasts of the Caribbean. In 1525, founded the city of Santa Marta, one of the first European settlements in South America. Explored areas that would later become part of present-day Colombia, mapping crucial coastal regions. His expeditions were marked by early contact with indigenous peoples and played a crucial role in Spanish colonization efforts in the New World.

Continue Reading