Year 1910

About the Artwork

The story behind Flowers in a Vase revolves around Henri Rousseau's exploration of still-life, a genre that fascinated him throughout his career. Despite being a customs officer by profession, Rousseau pursued painting in his spare time, often creating at a leisurely pace. This particular piece reflects his love for flora and nature, capturing a sprightly bouquet with a child's wonder for detail. Rousseau’s works were initially met with skepticism but have since won acclaim, revealing how his artistic voice resonates with modern audiences.

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Did You Know

Henri Rousseau, despite achieving fame as a painter, spent most of his life as a customs officer, creating artwork during his limited free time. This dual existence heavily influenced his work, allowing him to maintain a fresh perspective on the beauty of everyday life.
Rousseau is celebrated for his Naïve Art style, characterized by a lack of perspective and a simplistic view of the world. This choice was not only a stylistic preference but also an expression of his wonder at nature’s beauty, particularly evident in his floral still-lifes.
Some art historians speculate that Rousseau’s colorful floral paintings, including Flowers in a Vase, may hold deeper meanings regarding innocence and the vibrancy of life, contrasting with the complexities and hardships of modern society.

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