Henri le douanier rousseau biography of martin

Henri Rousseau was a self-taught Sunday painter who began his artistic journey in earnest at the age of 40.

During his lifetime, he was often belittled, and even today, some art critics view his works as charming but not serious art. His working-class background posed a significant challenge to gaining recognition in the art world.

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Henri le douanier rousseau biography of martin luther

Le Douanier

Henri Julien Rousseau was born in Laval, Northern France, into a plumber's family. As a child, Henri showed an interest in both music and drawing. Although he dreamed of becoming an artist, his family’s modest financial means made this aspiration seem unattainable.

After completing the lycée, a type of high school, Rousseau briefly worked for a lawyer before joining the French army in 1863. He later claimed to have served in Mexico, but art hi