The Repast of the Lion is a captivating oil on canvas painting created by French artist Henri Rousseau around 1907. The artwork depicts a lion feeding amidst lush foliage in an exotic jungle setting, a representation of Rousseau’s study of Paris’ botanical gardens. The painting is currently displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
Rousseau, famously known as “Le Douanier Rousseau” or “the toll collector,” was a self-taught artist who retired from his job at the Paris customs office to focus on his art full-time. This masterpiece is one of his most renowned works along with “Surprised!” and “Feasting Animals at the Paris Zoo.”
The impressive element of this painting comes from its vivid colors and bold composition. Moreover, the presence of contrasting elements such as the ferociousness and calmness within one piece adds depth to this masterpiece. “The Repast Of The Lion” astounds how clear and detailed every leaf’s appearance in contrast with their respective shades presents itself surprisingly well-rendered upon closer inspection, leading viewers deep into its stunning jungle scene.
