Henri Rousseau

French post-Impressionist painter known for his Naïve and Primitive style.

Chronology: 1844-05-21 – 1910-09-02

Origins & Early Life

Henri Julien Félix Rousseau (French: [ɑ̃ʁi ʒyljɛ̃ feliks ʁuso]; 21 May 1844 – 2 September 1910) was a French post-Impressionist painter in the Naïve or Primitive manner. He was also known as Le Douanier (the customs officer), a humorous description of his occupation as a toll and tax collector. He started painting seriously in his early forties; by age 49, he retired from his job to work on his art full-time. Ridiculed during his lifetime by critics, he came to be recognised as a self-taught genius whose works are of high artistic quality.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Rousseau's work exerted an extensive influence on several generations of avant-garde artists. == Career == === Early life === Rousseau was born in Laval, Mayenne, France, in 1844 into the family of a tinsmith; he was forced to work there as a young child. He attended Laval High School as a day student, and then as a boarder after his father became a debtor and his parents had to leave the town upon the seizure of their house. Though mediocre in some of his high school subjects, Rousseau won prizes for drawing and music. After high school, he worked for a lawyer and studied law, but "attempted a small perjury and sought refuge in the army." He served...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Source: Wikipedia