Alfons Mucha was a Czech painter and decorative artist, born on July 24, 1860, in Ivančice, Moravia. He is best known for his distinctive style that became synonymous with the Art Nouveau movement. Mucha's work often featured beautiful women, intricate floral designs, and elegant typography, which were widely used in posters, advertisements, and book illustrations. Mucha gained fame in the late 19th century, particularly after creating a series of posters for the actress Sarah Bernhardt. His artistic contributions extended beyond commercial art; he also produced paintings, murals, and designs that celebrated Slavic culture and history, particularly through his series titled The Slav Epic.