War
1894 Musée d'Orsay
About this artwork
This allegorical work depicts a personified figure of war riding a horse across a desolate battlefield littered with corpses. It is one of the artist's most prominent works, reflecting his distinctively stylized, self-taught approach.
Did you know?
Henri Rousseau, a self-taught toll collector often called 'Le Douanier', created this intense, dream-like vision of war without ever having seen combat himself. The composition's flat, almost childlike perspective was initially mocked by contemporary critics, but it has since been celebrated for its raw, symbolic power and hauntingly surreal atmosphere.
On your wall. Unlock the HD download and keep this piece in your Vault — forever.
Know the artwork. Knowing its title and artist turns a beautiful image into a story worth sharing — with a museum label:
War
Henri Rousseau, 1894
