Brunelleschi, Umberto

1879 – 1949
French, Italian

Brunelleschi was born in Montemurdo in Tuscany and studied art in Florence before moving to Paris in 1900 to continue his career.

He quickly established himself as an illustrator for books and fashion publications. His most famous graphic works were printed using the pochoir technique of coloration that enhanced his vividly colored images. Brunelleschi was a regular contributor to many prestigious periodicals such as “La Gazette du Bon Ton”, “Journal des Dames et Des Modes”, “Harper’s Bazaar” and “Flirt”. He was also the artistic director of “La Guirlande” which existed briefly as a journal for literature and the arts.

Brunelleschi’s gift for color and style earned him considerable success in the field of decorative arts. The influence of his years in Florence and the Commedia dell’arte can be found in the prints, posters and decorative murals he created.

By the 1920’s Brunelleschi expanded his enterprise to include costume and set design and he met with tremendous acclaim. Not only was he a regular designer for the Folies Bergère, and theatres and cabarets in France, Italy, Germany and New York, he earned the laurel of head costume designer for the incomparable Josephine Baker.

His prints continue to charm collectors who enjoy his simple elegant style.