Surprised! (Tiger in a Tropical Storm)
Reproduction print on composite tiles or blocks • Henri Rousseau (le Douanier)
Style & Movement
Naïve Art (Primitivism / Post-Impressionism)
Medium & Technique
Mechanical offset lithography or digital print on textured composite material; imagery mimics original oil on canvas technique
Creation Period
Original composed in 1891; this reproduction is 21st century
Dimensions & Format
Small-scale square format (fragmented); approximate area shown 10x10 cm
Subject Description
A tiger crouching through thick jungle foliage during a storm, characterized by stylized, flattened planes of color, exaggerated feline expressions, and layered botanical details.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair; visible wear at edges and seams between sections
Estimated Market Value
$5 - $20 USD
Auction Estimate
$0 - $10 USD (Likely unsuitable for fine art auction)
Provenance History
Modern commercial reproduction; likely retail/mass-produced home decor
Art Historical Significance
The original 1891 painting is currently held by the National Gallery, London, and is a seminal work of Naïve art, influencing Surrealists and modernists. This object is a decorative homage.
Notable Features
The artwork is presented as a multi-part grid, possibly a puzzle or decorative storage box, featuring Rousseau's famous wide-eyed tiger motif.
Condition Issues
Scuffing and paper loss at the corners of the composite blocks; misalignment of the printed pattern across horizontal and vertical seams.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a low-moisture environment to prevent warping of the composite base and fading of the ink.