Paul César Helleu (1859–1927) – Belle Époque Elegance Paul César Helleu (17 December 1859 – 23 March 1927) was a French painter, pastel artist, drypoint etcher, and designer, best known for his numerous portraits of beautiful society women during the *Belle Époque*. He also conceived the ceiling mural of night sky constellations for Grand Central Terminal in New York City. This ambitious project showcased his artistic vision on a grand scale. Helleu was considered one of the foremost artists in capturing the essence and aesthetic ideals of the Belle Époque—a period characterized by optimism,…