In addition to his work as an illustrator of classics, Hungarian-born artist Willy Pogány (1882?1955) served as an art director on several Hollywood films, including Fashions of 1934 and Dames. He was also an author and teacher whose instructive manuals include Dover's Drawing Lessons.

Stories by Elaine Pogány include Peterkin and Scrambled Eggs. She posed for many of her husband's most famous paintings and murals.