Henri Rousseau

1844-1910

Henri Rousseau (1844–1910) was a self-taught French painter who created some of the most visionary works of his era despite never receiving formal artistic training. Working as a tax collector in Paris for over two decades—earning him the nickname "Le Douanier"—he painted only in his spare time until retiring at 49 to pursue art full-time. Though critics mocked his flat, childlike style during his lifetime, Rousseau's distinctive vision soon captivated avant-garde artists. His lush jungle scenes, painted entirely from imagination using sketches from botanical gardens and taxidermy displays, established him as a pioneer of naive art. Picasso recognized his genius and championed his work, leading to Rousseau's eventual celebration among modernists and Surrealists. His influence on twentieth-century art proved profound and lasting, reshaping how artists conceived of representation and creative authenticity.