Haddon Hubbard Sundblom (1899–1976) was an American illustrator whose work helped define the visual language of 20th-century advertising. Trained in Chicago, he blended classical draftsmanship with lush, confident brushwork and cinematic lighting to create images that felt warm, immediate, and human. In 1931 he painted his first Coca-Cola Santa, establishing the rosy-cheeked, red-suited figure that became the world’s most familiar vision of St. Nick. Across decades of holiday campaigns, Sundblom refined that character into a cultural icon—an enduring fusion of folklore and modern brand storytelling. Beyond Christmas imagery, Sundblom led a prolific studio that produced premium illustration for major American brands and magazines. His portraits, lifestyle scenes, and occasional pin-ups showcased a command of color harmony, skin tones, and expressive gesture that influenced a generation of illustrators. Artists such as Andrew Loomis and Gil Elvgren were associated with his circle, carrying forward his emphasis on narrative, polish, and warmth. Born in Michigan to Finnish-Swedish parents, Sundblom elevated commercial art with fine-art technique, leaving a legacy seen every holiday season. His pictures are not only advertisements; they are stories—crafted with empathy and light—that shaped how millions imagine celebration, generosity, and joy.