Art Review: Rediscovering the Genius of Henri Rousseau
If you’ve ever found yourself mesmerized by Henri Rousseau’s enigmatic masterpiece, “The Sleeping Gypsy” (1897) at the Museum of Modern Art, then you’re in for a treat at the Barnes Foundation’s exhibition, “Henri Rousseau: A Painter’s Secrets.” This new showcase not only presents the iconic painting but also delves into nearly 60 more of Rousseau’s works, shedding light on the artist’s personal story and revealing hidden technical details through conservators’ studies.
Henri Rousseau, a self-taught and self-confident artist, embarked on his painting career after retiring as a toll collector in Paris in 1893. Despite his impoverished circumstances, Rousseau’s unique style and captivating compositions soon caught the attention of fellow artists, including Pablo Picasso. In fact, Picasso was so enamored with Rousseau’s work that he acquired one of his paintings, “Portrait of a Woman in a Landscape” (1899), which is now on display at the Barnes Foundation.
The title of the exhibition, “A Painter’s Secrets,” is fitting as curators Christopher Green and Nancy Ireson have meticulously recontextualized Rousseau’s artworks in the context of his life story. Technical studies have also uncovered hidden details and nuances in his paintings, such as the subtle use of color in “The Family” (c. 1892–1900) and the intricate foliage in “Tropical Forest with Monkeys” (1910).
As you wander through the galleries, you’ll be surprised by the unexpected elements in Rousseau’s paintings, like the Eiffel Tower subtly peeking out in the background of “Sawmill, Outskirts of Paris” (1893–95) or the eerie presence of a disembodied head in “Carnival Evening” (1886). These revelations add layers of intrigue to Rousseau’s already enigmatic narratives.
“A Painter’s Secrets” also features loans from other institutions, allowing visitors to compare Rousseau’s work with thematically related pieces. The exhibition highlights Rousseau’s unique storytelling abilities, as seen in paintings like “Unpleasant Surprise” (1899–1901) and “The Snake Charmer” (1907), which leave viewers pondering the fates of the figures depicted.
For art enthusiasts looking to delve deeper into Rousseau’s world, the exhibition’s catalog offers a wealth of information. Additionally, visitors can explore the Barnes Foundation’s permanent collection, which includes more works by Rousseau alongside masterpieces by Picasso, Cézanne, Matisse, and Renoir, providing a comprehensive look at the evolution of modern art.
“Henri Rousseau: A Painter’s Secrets” is a rare opportunity to appreciate the innovative use of color and space in Rousseau’s art and to immerse yourself in his enchanting imagination. Don’t miss this captivating exhibition, on display at the Barnes Foundation until February 22, 2026, before it travels to the Musée de l’Orangerie in Paris.
