Henri Rousseau was a French Post-Impressionist painter who is best known for his jungle scenes. He was born in 1844 and died in 1910. His work was highly influential and he is considered one of the most important painters of the 20th century. He was self-taught and worked as a toll collector before becoming a full-time artist. He was nicknamed 'Le Douanier' (the customs officer) due to his former occupation.