Meet the Most Beautiful Woman in the World: Cléo de Mérode

This French ballet dancer was the modern era’s first real celebrity icon

Portrait of Cléo de Mérode (Source: Public domain, color by Klimbim)

She was the most famous woman in the world. Everyone knew her face. Millions scanned the newspapers for tidbits of information about her. Millions more purchased postcards, playing cards, and other items bearing her likeness. She was featured in…