Jules Chéret (31 May 1836 – 23 September 1932) was a prominent French artist and lithographer who played a pivotal role in the development of the Art Nouveau movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His work in the field of poster design and popular graphic art had a lasting impact on the world of advertising and graphic design.

Chéret was born in Paris, France, to a family of modest means. At a young age, he displayed a talent for drawing, and he pursued formal art education at the École Impériale de Dessin in Paris. He later studied with various artists, including Horace Lecoq de Boisbaudran, who encouraged his interest in color and the potential of lithography.

In the 1860s, Chéret was drawn to the burgeoning world of commercial art and poster design. He recognized the potential of lithography as a medium for creating colorful and eye-catching posters that could effectively promote products, events, and entertainments. His innovative use of vibrant colors, fluid lines, and playful, dynamic compositions made his posters stand out in the bustling urban environment of Paris.

One of Chéret's most notable achievements was his invention of the three-stone lithographic process, which allowed for the reproduction of a wide range of colors and tones. This breakthrough had a significant impact on the field of printing and made his posters even more visually striking.

Chéret's art often featured elegant, alluring women, known as "Chérettes," and his distinctive style became synonymous with the Belle Époque, a period of flourishing artistic and cultural innovation in France. His works included posters for cabarets, theaters, and various consumer products, such as perfumes, liquor, and bicycles.

His poster for the famous cabaret Le Moulin Rouge, featuring the graceful dancer La Goulue, is one of his most iconic creations. Chéret's posters not only served as effective advertising tools but also became collectible items of beauty and art.

As the "father of the modern poster," Chéret's influence extended beyond France, with his work inspiring artists and graphic designers around the world. His dedication to the fusion of fine art and commercial design helped pave the way for the Art Nouveau movement, which celebrated decorative, organic forms and would later influence architecture, furniture, and other aspects of design.

Jules Chéret's contributions to the world of art and design earned him accolades and recognition during his lifetime, and his legacy continues to be celebrated today. His posters remain highly sought after by collectors, and his impact on the field of graphic design endures as an essential chapter in the history of art and advertising.