Josef Lada was a Czech painter, illustrator, and graphic artist, born on December 17, 1887, in the village of Hrusice, near Prague. He is best known for his charming illustrations in children's books and his distinctive style that often features folk themes and rural life. Lada's work reflects the beauty of Czech culture and traditions. Lada gained fame for illustrating the popular Czech fairy tales and stories, including those by Karel Čapek. His art is characterized by bright colors, simple forms, and a whimsical quality that appeals to both children and adults. He passed away on December 7, 1957, leaving a lasting legacy in Czech art.