Henri Rousseau, born on May 21, 1844, was a French self-taught painter who began his artistic career at age forty. He is known for his naive art style, particularly in his jungle scenes, which were inspired by the Paris zoo and botanical gardens. His works, such as The Equatorial Jungle and Tropical Forest with Monkeys, showcase his unique and imaginative approach to art.
Rousseau's innovative style has influenced generations of artists and remains a cornerstone of naive art.