Rodolphe Salis was a French artist and cabaret owner, best known for founding the famous Moulin Rouge in Paris in 1889. He played a significant role in the development of the cabaret culture, blending art, music, and performance in a lively atmosphere. Salis was also a painter and illustrator, contributing to the vibrant artistic scene of the time. In addition to the Moulin Rouge, Salis established the Chat Noir cabaret in 1881, which became a hub for artists and intellectuals. The venue featured performances, music, and visual art, fostering creativity and collaboration among its patrons. Salis's influence helped shape the nightlife and cultural landscape of late 19th-century Paris.