Édouard-Henri Avril
French painter of erotic art
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
Sisca Folkertsma
Dutch footballer and national team player
Born
May 21st, 1997 28 years ago
Played professional football in the Netherlands and represented the national team. Competed in top leagues and showcased skills as a forward. Participated in international tournaments, contributing to the team's strategy and performance on the field.
Continue ReadingIndy de Vroome
Dutch tennis player with WTA titles
Born
May 21st, 1996 29 years ago
A professional tennis player from the Netherlands, competed primarily on the ITF Women's Circuit and the WTA Tour. Achieved a highest singles ranking of No. 98 in 2015. Participated in various Grand Slam tournaments, including the French Open and Wimbledon. Contributed to the Dutch national team in international competitions, notably in the Fed Cup.
Continue ReadingAlbrecht Dürer
German Painter and Engraver
Born
May 21st, 1471 554 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1528 498 years ago — 56 years old
A pivotal figure of the Northern Renaissance, Dürer specialized in painting, engraving, and theoretical writings on art and geometry. Artworks displayed remarkable detail and precision, revolutionizing printmaking. The established practice of signature on works indicated the importance of the artist as an individual. Major contributions to art theory included treatises on proportion and perspective. Dürer's travels to Italy influenced his work, bringing classical elements into the Northern European tradition.
Continue ReadingKaren Khachanov
Tennis player, 2018 Paris Masters champion
Born
May 21st, 1996 29 years ago
A professional tennis player achieved significant success on the ATP tour. Gained attention by winning the 2018 Paris Masters, defeating Novak Djokovic in the final. His playing style is characterized by a powerful serve and strong groundstrokes, contributing to numerous victories against top-ranked players. Competing prominently in international tournaments, earned a gold medal in men's singles at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Consistently ranked among the top players globally, demonstrated skill and determination throughout career.
Continue ReadingDanny Ongais
Race car driver, Indy 500 competitor
Born
May 21st, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 80 years old
Originated from a racing background, achieved prominence in the world of motorsports. Competed in the Indianapolis 500 multiple times, finishing as a top contender. Also participated in various Formula One races and sports car events. Accumulated significant experience in diverse racing formats.
Continue ReadingTom Daley
Diver, Olympic gold medalist
Born
May 21st, 1994 31 years ago
A highly accomplished diver, achieved significant success on the international stage. Competed in multiple Olympic Games, earning a gold medal in the 10m synchro event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Established a reputation for excellence in both individual and synchronized diving, garnering numerous medals at World Championships and Commonwealth Games. Also gained recognition for advocacy in the LGBTQ+ community and various charitable endeavors.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 28th
Émile Derlin Zinsou
Beninese politician and former president
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2016 9 years ago — 98 years old
Served as the President of Benin from 1968 to 1969. Involved in politics during a turbulent period in Benin's history, participating in several government administrations. Held the position of Prime Minister before ascending to the presidency. His leadership style emphasized stability and governance amidst national challenges. Led efforts to improve economic conditions in Benin but faced political opposition during his tenure.
Continue ReadingBernhard Crusell
Finnish composer of wind music
Born
October 15th, 1775 250 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1838 187 years ago — 62 years old
A composer and clarinetist, contributed significantly to music in the early 19th century. Crusell's compositions primarily focused on works for woodwinds, particularly the clarinet. He served as a conductor and wrote operas, chamber music, and concertos. Key works include his clarinet concertos, which are central to the clarinet repertoire, and operas such as 'Kärmesönn' and 'Mördarens död'. His influence extended beyond Finland, impacting the development of wind music in Europe.
Continue ReadingBernard Cribbins
Actor known for Doctor Who and films
Born
December 29th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2022 3 years ago — 93 years old
Career spanned over seven decades, featuring a variety of roles in television and film. Gained prominence through work in the children's television series 'Jackanory' and the long-running sci-fi series 'Doctor Who', portraying characters such as Tom Campbell. Appeared in films including 'The Railway Children' and 'Daleks' Invasion Earth: 2150 A.D.'. Contributed to British entertainment through both comedic and dramatic performances.
Continue ReadingSelim III
Ottoman Sultan and reformer
Born
December 24th, 1761 264 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1808 217 years ago — 46 years old
Born in 1761, Selim III ascended the Ottoman throne in 1789. His reign focused on military and administrative reforms to modernize the empire amid rising challenges. Implemented the Nizam-ı Cedid, a new army intended to rival European forces. Faced opposition from traditional factions and ultimately was dethroned in 1807 during a Janissary revolt. After a brief restoration, he was executed in 1808.
Continue ReadingFrank Loesser
American composer of Broadway musicals
Born
June 29th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1969 56 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent American composer and lyricist, contributions spanned musicals and songs that became standards. Created the beloved Broadway show 'Guys and Dolls' in 1950, which retained popularity over decades. 'How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying' also showcased versatility and creativity in musical theatre. Throughout a prolific career, Loesser produced work that resonated with audiences across generations, combining wit and memorable melodies.
Continue ReadingEdward Natapei
Vanuatuan politician, 6th Prime Minister
Born
July 17th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2015 10 years ago — 61 years old
Served as the 6th Prime Minister of Vanuatu from 2004 to 2006. Held various positions in the Vanuatu government including Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Finance. Contributed to national development and international diplomacy.
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