Hilary Knight (illustrator)

Hilary Knight (born November 1, 1926) is an American illustrator best known for his artwork in Kay Thompson's Eloise series of children's books. He also illustrated numerous other children's books, magazines, and created advertising art.

Knight was born in Hempstead, New York, to writer and fashion editor Clayton Knight and children's author and illustrator Katharine Sturges Knight. He was influenced by his parents' creative careers from an early age.

He began his career as a freelance illustrator in the 1950s, working for publications such as Harper's Bazaar, Mademoiselle, and The New Yorker. His collaboration with Kay Thompson began in 1955 with the publication of Eloise, which featured his distinctive, energetic, and often humorous illustrations of the precocious six-year-old living at the Plaza Hotel. The Eloise books became a cultural phenomenon, and Knight's illustrations were central to their success. He continued to illustrate several subsequent Eloise books and related projects.

Beyond the Eloise series, Knight illustrated a wide range of children's books by other authors, demonstrating versatility in his style and subject matter. He also designed theatrical posters and created advertising campaigns.

Knight's work is characterized by its lively line work, expressive characters, and attention to detail. He is recognized for his significant contribution to children's literature and illustration.