At an early age, he published drawn work in the São Paulo publication Diabo Coxo on 17 September 1864.

[2] The first chapter published on 30 January 1869, the story involved themes of conflict between the agricultural and urban culture, and political commentary through visual storytelling capable of reaching a largely illiterate population.

[3] During the 1880s Agostini started the periodical Revista Illustrada, which became noted for its illustrated coverage of the annual Carnival.

[2][3] Achieving a multimedia impact, the series was printed in four editions, and inspired a popular song and two silent films.

[4] The couple left Brazil in 1888 for Paris, with their daughter Angelina Agostini (1888-1973), who also became a sculptor and painter.