Alberto Vargas, born in Peru, became one of the most renowned pin-up artists of the 20th century.
He gained early prominence in New York, working for the Ziegfeld Follies and Hollywood studios, including creating the iconic poster for the 1933 film *The Sin of Nora Moran*, celebrated as one of the greatest movie posters ever made. Vargas achieved widespread fame in the 1940s with his “Vargas Girls” pin-ups for *Esquire* magazine, producing 180 paintings between 1940 and 1946. These works became cultural icons of the World War II era, inspiring nose art on Allied aircraft and delighting soldiers and civilians alike.
However, controversy arose when the U.S. Post Office attempted to shut down *Esquire* by revoking its mailing privileges, objecting to its risqué content, including Vargas’ art. Although the Supreme Court ruled in favor of *Esquire*, the legal battles strained Vargas’ career, leading to a financial downturn after a dispute over the use of the name “Varga.” His fortunes changed in 1959 when *Playboy* magazine began featuring his work, commissioning 152 paintings over the next 16 years. This revival brought him global acclaim, major exhibitions, and solidified his legacy.
Today, Vargas’ pin-ups remain timeless masterpieces, celebrated for their elegance, sensuality, and artistry. His work continues to captivate audiences, symbolizing an era of cultural and artistic innovation.
h/t: vintag.es