Josef Lada (17. 12. 1887 - 14. 12. 1957) - Czech painter, illustrator, cartoonist and writer. Author Hasek's famous illustrations for the book The Good Soldier Schweik.

Josef Lada was born in the village of Hrusice in the family of the local shoemaker. Childhood in the picturesque Czech village permanently affected his future work. At fourteen he went to Prague parents initially wanted their son trained as a house painter, but eventually graduated bookbinder - forsythia. Josef Lada, however most attracted drawing.

His first two drawings published in May 1904 weekly. Since October of that year he began Josef attend a draftsman course at the Academy of Arts (UPS) to Professor Jakesch. In Prague, he settled permanently, moonlighted as a cartoonist and freelance illustrator. At the same time sought admission to the Art College, where the third attempt really got. Teaching him but did not enjoy, in addition students were not allowed to publish, and so after half a year of school left.

Tucked into full draw and soon had the contracts need. Illustrated children's books, published in the then newspapers and magazines. He himself edited the diary Czech word attachment called Flowers from the Devil garden.

In 1923, Josef Lada married Hana Budweis, with whom he had two daughters. Younger Eva died during US bombing of the city February 14, 1945, senior Alena became known illustrator. His father thought back in the book My dad Josef Lada , which was published in 1963.

An unforgettable even worldwide famed Lada figures include illustrations for Hasek's book The Good Soldier �vejk . He himself was also the author of many books for children. For example, My Alphabet from 1911, published today, as well as tales of sweety Mike�.

Josef Lada created a distinctive style that is understandable to everyone. Perhaps that is why his drawings, one of which radiates gentle humor and love for the native land, have become popular all generations.