The Eiffel Tower
1898 Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
About this artwork
This oil on canvas painting depicts a view of the Seine River with the Eiffel Tower in the background, executed in Rousseau's characteristic self-taught, simplified style. The work reflects his fascination with the modern engineering marvels of contemporary Paris.
Did you know?
Henri Rousseau, a self-taught customs officer, was often mocked by contemporary critics for his simplified perspective and flat application of color, yet he was deeply admired by avant-garde artists like Picasso. The Eiffel Tower was only a decade old when he painted this, and his portrayal highlights how the structure quickly became a symbol of modern French identity. Rousseau often painted exotic or modern scenes without having traveled far, relying instead on his vivid imagination and postcards.
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The Eiffel Tower
Henri Rousseau, 1898
