Henri Rousseau (le Douanier)

Henri Rousseau, known as le Douanier, was a French painter born in 1844 and active until his death in 1910. He is associated with the Post-Impressionism movement, despite being largely self-taught and not formally trained in art. Rousseau is best known for his vivid jungle scenes and dreamlike landscapes, which often featured exotic animals and lush vegetation, reflecting his fascination with nature and the imagination. His work gained recognition later in life, particularly after being championed by artists such as Pablo Picasso and André Derain. Rousseau's unique style and visionary approach have had a lasting impact on modern art, influencing various movements, including Surrealism and Naïve art. Despite his significant contributions, he struggled for acceptance during his lifetime, and his artistic legacy was only fully appreciated posthumously.