Avril (Paul) Édouard-Henri

Édouard-Henri Avril (Algiers 1849 – 1928 Le Raincy) was a French painter and illustrator. Under the pseudonym Paul Avril he was an illustrator of erotic literature. After a military career, Avril, born in Algiers, turned to art. He visited several Parisian salons. From 1874 to 1878 he studied at the École des Beaux Arts. When he was asked to illustrate Théophile Gautier's novella Fortunio - an assignment he accepted - he chose the pseudonym Paul Avril. This pseudonym sometimes caused confusion with his brother Paul Victor Avril. His reputation was quickly established and he received many illustration assignments for books by renowned writers. He also regularly illustrated works that are considered 'gallant literature'. These erotic writings were sold to collectors in small editions, often on a subscription basis. (Wikipedia)