Alberto Vargas was a Peruvian painter and illustrator, best known for his pin-up art during the mid-20th century. Born on February 9, 1896, in Arequipa, Peru, he moved to the United States in the 1910s, where he gained fame for his glamorous depictions of women. His work often appeared in magazines like Esquire and Playboy, contributing to the popular culture of the time. Vargas's style combined realism with a dreamlike quality, showcasing his subjects in elegant poses and settings. He developed a unique technique using airbrushes, which allowed for smooth gradients and soft textures. His legacy continues to influence artists and designers in the realms of illustration and commercial art.