Embark on an extraordinary journey through the life of Walter Thornton, a luminary of the New York City beauty, modeling and advertising scene during the roaring 1920s and beyond. "The Merchant of Venus: The Life of Walter Thornton" explores deep into the captivating narrative of a man whose legacy transcends time.
In a tale as captivating as any Hollywood script, Walter Thornton's remarkable story unfolds. From his meteoric rise as a prominent male model during the Jazz Age, posing for icons such as Norman Rockwell and JC Leyendecker, to his groundbreaking establishment of the first agency exclusively for photographic advertising models in 1930, Thornton carved his name into the records of American history.
But his influence didn't stop there. Amidst the turmoil of World War II, Thornton played a pivotal role in igniting the patriotic movement of the Pin-Up Girl, leaving an indelible imprint on the cultural landscape of the era. His eye for talent was undeniable, as he discovered and represented future Hollywood icons including Lauren Bacall, Susan Hayward, Joseph Cotten, and the legendary Grace Kelly.
However, Thornton's story is not just one of triumph; it's a tale of resilience in the face of adversity. Bestowed with the moniker "The Merchant of Venus" by renowned columnist Walter Winchell, Thornton's journey took a tragic turn in 1954, tarnishing his once-illustrious reputation. Now, his daughters lift the veil on their father's enigmatic life.
Their exploration began with a chance encounter-an image in the 2003 film "Seabiscuit," serving as the avatar for the Stock Market Crash of 1929, sparking a quest that spanned over two decades. Through painstaking research, including exploring Thornton's personal archives and interviews, they uncovered a previously overlooked chapter of history, painting a vivid portrait of a man ahead of his time.
"The Merchant of Venus" not only celebrates Thornton's triumphs but also his resilience in the face of adversity. His blueprints persist in shaping the modeling and advertising industry, and the 1940 patriotic Pinup girl endures as a cherished American tradition. His 1929 photo graces textbooks and products, yet beneath its surface lies untold depth.
