Copy painting on canvas of the artwork
The Hungry Lion Throws Itself on the Antelope (Rousseau)

This large canvas is one of Henri Rousseau’s most famous and violent jungle scenes. In the center, a lion attacks an antelope, devouring its neck. The scene is strikingly cruel. Around them, in lush, dark vegetation, other animals watch the scene: a panther, an owl, a monkey… The sun is setting on the horizon, adding a dramatic light. Inspired by a diorama at the Natural History Museum, Rousseau creates a theatrical and terrifying vision of the law of the jungle. The naive style, far from softening the violence, makes it more frontal and disturbing. Each plant, each animal is painted with meticulous precision, creating a setting that is both magnificent and frightening. It is a powerful work about predation and the terrible beauty of wild nature.