Charles Martin

Charles Martin was born in Paris, France in 1884. He attended the Ecole des Beaux Arts in Paris from 1908 to 1910 where his companions included George Barbier and his cousin Pierre Brissaud, as well as Monvel, Besnard, Paul Iribe, and Georges Lepape. They all became famous illustrators later on.

He illustrated several books, particularly "Sports et Divertissements in 1919 where he collaborated with Erik Satie.

Martin established himself as a premier graphic artist, fashion designers, ballet and costume designer and illustrator. He is considered the most cubist of the Art Deco fashion illustrators. Martin illustrated fashion for many magazines, including Le Journal des Dames et des Modes, Modes et Manieres d'Aujourd'hui and the Gazette du Bon Ton.

In 1923, he was included in Vogue's list of accredited illustrators, mentioned as being one of 8 French artists stationed in Paris.

In 1923, in a humourous mood, Vogue gave 6 artists orders to illustrate the lives of 6 Parisiennes, and Martin got enthusiastic Toinon and her beloved goldfish.

Martin's contribution to Vogue was quite satirical, with a gentle hint of teasing and mockery. Martin only did one cover for Vogue, in 1925.

He was a regular contributor of satirical social illustrations for Vogue until his death. He died in 1934 at the age of only 50.