gustave herter (1830–1898) was a german-american artist and designer, best known as the co-founder of the herter brothers firm in new york city. he was born in stuttgart, germany, and immigrated to the united states in 1849. in 1864, he and his brother christian founded the herter brothers firm, which initially specialized in furniture and upholstery but later expanded to provide complete interior decoration services. herter brothers became one of the first american firms to offer comprehensive interior design services, including decorative paneling, mantels, wall and ceiling decoration, patterned floors, carpets, and draperies. gustave herter was responsible for the design and execution of many of the firm's most notable projects, including the interiors of the william h. vanderbilt house, the otto hermann house, and the james h. hyde house. he was also known for his collaborations with other artists and designers, including louis comfort tiffany and stanford white. herter's work was characterized by its opulence, attention to detail, and use of exotic materials. he was a pioneer in the use of carved and gilded wood, and his designs often incorporated elements of the aesthetic movement, the arts and crafts movement, and the gilded age. herter's work had a significant impact on american interior design, and he is considered one of the most important designers of the late nineteenth century.