Belle Epoque poster for the Black Cat Cabaret. Designed by Theophile-Alexandre Steinlen (1859-1923). Louis Rodolphe Salis (29 May 1851 – 20 March 1897) was the creator, host and owner of the Le Chat Noir (“The Black Cat”) cabaret (known briefly in 1881 at its beginning as “Cabaret Artistique”). With this establishment Salis is remembered as the creator of the modern cabaret: a nightclub where the patrons could sit at tables with alcoholic drinks and enjoy variety acts on a stage, introduced by a master of ceremonies who interacted with the audience. Théophile Alexandre Steinlen (1859–1923) was a French painter, printmaker, and illustrator, renowned for his evocative depictions of Parisian life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Switzerland, Steinlen moved to Paris, where he became deeply immersed in the vibrant artistic and cultural scene. His work is characterized by a keen observation of everyday life, often focusing on the lives of the working class, cabaret performers, and street scenes. Steinlen is perhaps best known for his iconic poster for the Moulin Rouge, featuring the famous dancer La Goulue, which captured the lively spirit of the Parisian nightlife and established him as a leading figure in the art of poster design. His posters and illustrations frequently employed bold colors, dynamic compositions, and expressive lines, making them visually striking and highly influential in the realm of commercial art. Beyond poster art, Steinlen created numerous paintings and drawings that showcased his love for animals, particularly cats, which became a recurring theme in his work. His ability to blend social commentary with aesthetic appeal allowed Steinlen to capture the essence of a transformative era in Paris, earning him a lasting legacy as a significant figure in both the Post-Impressionist movement and the world of graphic design.