Raphael Schwartz was a multifaceted Russian artist with Ukrainian origins, celebrated for his work as a painter, printmaker, and sculptor. Born on October 1, 1874, in Kiev, he later settled in Paris in 1892 after marrying a French aristocrat​​​​. His presence in the artistic hub of Paris, particularly at the Villa des Ternes, allowed him to nurture a vibrant social life, described by his friend, sculptor Jacques Loutchansky, as active and filled with humor​​.

Educated at Académie Julian, Schwartz's contributions to the art world were acknowledged when he was awarded the Legion of Honour. His legacy as an artist is grounded in the Russian and French traditions, despite the tragic end to his life by suicide in Pau, France, on August 3, 1942​​.