Albert Bierstadt
Albert Bierstadt was an American painter born in 1830 and active until his death in 1902. He was a prominent figure in the Romanticism art movement, known for his large-scale landscapes that captured the American West's grandeur. Bierstadt's work often depicted the Rocky Mountains and Yosemite Valley, contributing to the popularization of the American landscape in art. He was a member of the Hudson River School and played a significant role in the westward expansion narrative through his dramatic and idealized representations of nature. His paintings not only showcased the beauty of the American wilderness but also influenced perceptions of the West during the 19th century. Despite his success, his popularity waned in the years following his death, and he is now recognized as a key figure in American art history.