Scout Attacked By A Tiger or “Eclaireur Attaque Par Un Tigre” is a painting created in 1904 by French artist Henri Rousseau. The painting depicts a man dressed in a uniform, holding a gun and being attacked by a tiger in a jungle scene. This masterpiece is an example of Rousseau’s naive or primitive style, which he developed without any formal art training.
Rousseau’s fascination with exotic plants and animals inspired him to create this piece. He placed the man against the lush green background of the jungle to depict just how dangerous, yet enticing, nature can be. The figure of the man with his back turned towards the viewer exemplifies the idea that nature holds vast mysteries beyond our understanding.
Currently housed at the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., this artwork portrays Rousseau’s literary influences from colonial-era adventure fiction written for juveniles who dreamed of getting lost in an exotic wilderness. While some may view this painting as simplistic, it portrays how nature’s beauty can deceive us, leading to danger and even death if one isn’t careful.
In conclusion, “Scout Attacked By A Tiger” is not only considered one of Rousseau’s finest works but also an excellent representation of his signature primitive art style. It speaks to both humanity’s admiration for nature’s beauty while simultaneously highlighting its danger along with our stubborn insistence on taming it—a true masterpiece standing large as proof that sometimes simplicity itself demands attention.”
