The Merchant of Venus: The Life of Walter Thornton by Nancy Thornton Navarro, Adriana Thornton-Cornejo, and Philip Mershon (Book Review #1950)

*The Merchant of Venus: The Life of Walter Thornton* is a fascinating biography that uncovers the extraordinary life of a man who, unbeknownst to his family, played a pivotal role in shaping America’s modeling, advertising, and beauty industries from the 1920s to the 1950s. Written by his daughters, Nancy Thornton Navarro and Adriana Thornton-Cornejo, with the help of Philip Mershon, this book is both a tribute to their father and an exploration of a forgotten chapter in American history.

The story begins with a serendipitous moment—an image in the 2003 film *Seabiscuit*—that sparks a two-decade-long journey of discovery. The daughters’ meticulous research, including delving into personal archives and conducting interviews, reveals their father’s hidden legacy. Walter Thornton, once thought to be an ordinary man, emerges as a luminary of his time, a man whose contributions were nothing short of revolutionary.

From his humble beginnings as a destitute orphan, Thornton rose to prominence as a male model during the Jazz Age, working with iconic artists like Norman Rockwell and JC Leyendecker. Dubbed “The Merchant of Venus” by famed gossip columnist Walter Winchell, Thornton’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to found the first agency for photographic advertising models in 1930. His agency discovered and represented some of the most iconic figures of the Golden Age of Cinema, including Lauren Bacall, Susan Hayward, Joseph Cotten, and Grace Kelly.

Thornton’s legacy also includes the creation of the “Pin-Up Girl of WWII,” a symbol of hope and patriotism for soldiers during the war. These pin-up girls, handpicked and promoted by Thornton, became enduring symbols of the era, touching the lives of countless soldiers and leaving an indelible mark on American culture.

However, Thornton’s life was not without its challenges. The McCarthy Era brought unfounded accusations of fraud and deception against him, casting a shadow over his illustrious career. Yet, as his daughters’ exploration reveals, Thornton’s resilience and courage in the face of adversity only add to the depth of his character.

*The Merchant of Venus* is a captivating read that not only honors Walter Thornton’s many achievements but also sheds light on his complex, often turbulent life. His influence on the modeling and advertising industries endures, and his story is a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation.

This biography is more than just a recounting of a life; it is a journey of discovery, a tribute to a father, and a vivid portrayal of an era that shaped modern America. Prepare to be inspired by *The Merchant of Venus: The Life of Walter Thornton*—a compelling and unforgettable exploration of one man’s triumphs, courage, and lasting legacy.

Written by Jeyran Main

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