Elsie de Wolfe

Interior decorator and actress

Elsie de Wolfe - Interior decorator and actress
Born

December 20th, 1865
159 years ago

Died

July 12th, 1950
75 years ago — 84 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An influential interior decorator and actress, the individual pioneered modern interior design, focusing on comfort and style. Flourishing in the early 20th century, the individual began a career in the theater and transitioned to design after being encouraged by peers. In the 1900s, opened a successful design firm in New York City, attracting affluent clients. The design philosophy emphasized light colors and simplicity, contrasting the heavy styles of the Victorian era. Authored the influential book 'The House in Good Taste', which established design principles for the modern home.

Pioneered modern interior design

Authored 'The House in Good Taste'

Decorated homes for prominent families

Other People Born on December 20th

Jillian Rose Reed

American actress known for 'Awkward.'
Born
December 20th, 1991 33 years ago

An actress gained recognition for the role of Tamara Kaplan in the television series 'Awkward.' The series aired from 2011 to 2016 on MTV, exploring the life of a teenage girl navigating high school challenges. In addition to 'Awkward,' appeared in various guest roles on popular shows and participated in several made-for-TV movies. The work in both comedic and dramatic roles contributed to a growing presence in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Karl Wendlinger

Austrian racing driver in Formula One
Born
December 20th, 1968 56 years ago

Competed in Formula One from 1991 to 1995. Raced for teams such as March and Sauber. Achieved a best finish of 3rd place at the 1994 Monaco Grand Prix. Also participated in various other racing series, including sports car races. Demonstrated significant skill in motorsports, particularly in endurance events and touring car racing.

Continue Reading

Yevgenia Ginzburg

Russian author and Gulag survivor
Born
December 20th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1977 48 years ago — 72 years old

An author renowned for writings about the Soviet regime, particularly the experiences in the Gulag system. The memoir "Journey into the Whirlwind" details personal experiences of arrest, imprisonment, and life in the labor camps. Ginzburg’s literary works reflect on totalitarianism and the importance of personal freedom. She continued to write following her release, contributing to Soviet literature and illuminating the struggles faced by those in the Soviet Union.

Continue Reading

Pieter de Hooch

Dutch painter of genre scenes
Born
December 20th, 1629 395 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1684 341 years ago — 54 years old

A Dutch painter specialized in genre scenes, recognized for his mastery of light and perspective. Active during the Dutch Golden Age, highlighted domestic interiors and everyday life. Worked closely with other influential artists and was part of the Dutch art movement that emphasized realism and emotional depth. Many works feature tranquil home environments and women engaged in domestic tasks, conveying a sense of serenity and order. The artist's works reflect the social and cultural settings of 17th-century Holland, showcasing a sophisticated understanding of composition and atmosphere.

Continue Reading

James Shields

Baseball pitcher; World Series participant
Born
December 20th, 1981 43 years ago

Played as a right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 2006 to 2018. Teams included the Tampa Bay Rays, Kansas City Royals, Chicago White Sox, and San Diego Padres. Achieved significant success with the Rays, reaching the World Series in 2008 against the Philadelphia Phillies. Awarded the 2011 All-Star selection while with the Rays. Recorded over 1,800 strikeouts during MLB career, establishing a reputation as a reliable starter.

Continue Reading

Nicolas Toussaint Charlet

French painter known for historical works
Born
December 20th, 1792 232 years ago
Died
1845 180 years ago — 53 years old

Among the prominent figures of 19th-century French art, this painter specialized in historical and military subjects. His artistic career was marked by a strong interest in the Napoleonic era, which influenced many of his works. In addition to painting, engagements in education reflected a commitment to fostering artistic talent. Charlet's works were characterized by their vibrant detail and dramatic themes, making a significant contribution to the representation of military history in art. His exhibitions gained recognition in notable salons, further establishing his reputation in the French artistic community.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 12th

William Bourchier

3rd Earl of Bath, English nobleman
Born
1557 468 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1623 402 years ago — 66 years old

Held the title of 3rd Earl of Bath, active during the early 17th century. Contributed to local governance in Devonshire and participated in the English parliament. Engaged in land management and maintained influence through his noble lineage. Inherited the title from his father and continued the family legacy.

Continue Reading

Kyōgoku Takakazu

Japanese nobleman and military leader
Died
July 12th, 1441 584 years ago — None years old

Served as a prominent nobleman during the Muromachi period in Japan. Held significant power and played a key role in the political landscape of the time. Involved in conflicts and alliances that shaped regional governance. His legacy includes contributions to the samurai class and its cultural practices. Engaged in military strategies and territorial administration, influencing the dynamics of feudal Japan.

Continue Reading

Pavel Nakhimov

Russian admiral and naval leader
Born
July 5th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1855 170 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1802, served in the Imperial Russian Navy. Played a pivotal role in the Crimean War, particularly in the Siege of Sevastopol. Contributed to naval strategy and operations, demonstrating significant leadership during critical maritime engagements. His tactics and decisions during the war showcased his naval acumen, resulting in notable military successes against opposing forces.

Continue Reading

Caroline Pafford Miller

American author, winner of Pulitzer Prize
Born
August 26th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1992 33 years ago — 88 years old

An author who received recognition for literary contributions, particularly noted for her novel 'Lamb in His Bosom,' which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1934. This work explored life in rural Georgia during the early 20th century and reflected the struggles of Southern life. Throughout her career, various works highlighted themes of resilience and cultural identity, contributing to the Southern literary tradition. She was active in writing for several decades, engaging with the rich tapestry of Southern history and heritage.

Continue Reading

Robert Henri

American painter and educator, Ashcan School
Born
June 24th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1929 96 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent figure in the Ashcan School movement, this painter focused on depicting everyday life in urban settings. He emphasized the portrayal of the working class and influenced a generation of artists through his teachings. His work showcased a commitment to realist themes and he advocated for a more authentic representation of American life, often characterized by bold colors and dynamic brushwork. In addition to painting, he held teaching positions, fostering the development of emerging artists. Exhibitions of his work received attention and contributed to the appreciation of American art.

Continue Reading

John A. Dahlgren

American admiral and naval innovator
Born
November 13th, 1809 215 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1870 155 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1809, this admiral served in the United States Navy and contributed significantly to naval warfare. He developed the Dahlgren gun, a revolutionary naval cannon that improved artillery capability on warships. He participated in the Mexican-American War and played a key role during the Civil War, commanding naval operations against Confederate forces. As a strong advocate for advancements in naval technology, his work laid the foundation for future innovations in naval artillery.

Continue Reading