Asher Brown Durand
Asher Brown Durand (1796–1886) was an American painter and engraver associated with the Romanticism movement. He is best known for his landscape paintings that capture the beauty of the American wilderness, reflecting the ideals of the Hudson River School, of which he was a prominent member. Durand's work emphasized the spiritual and sublime qualities of nature, influencing the perception of American landscapes in art. He played a significant role in the establishment of the National Academy of Design and was an advocate for the recognition of American art. His notable works include "Kindred Spirits," which celebrates the bond between nature and humanity. Durand's legacy continues to resonate in the appreciation of American landscape painting.