Merced River, Yosemite Valley

Albert Bierstadt

Created:
Movement:
1866
Romanticism
key Notes:
Majestic landscape; Luminous realism
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Dimensions:
36 x 50 in. (91.4 x 127 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

We have not been able to find much information about this work, or we believe the information we sourced needed more review.

Merced River, Yosemite Valley by Albert Bierstadt

Albert Bierstadt (1830–1902) was a German-American painter known for his grandiose landscapes of the American West. His painting, Merced River, Yosemite Valley, created in 1866, is an exemplary work of the Hudson River School, characterized by its detailed and romantic portrayal of nature.

The painting captures the sublime beauty of Yosemite Valley, emphasizing the grandeur and vastness of the American landscape. Bierstadt's use of light and shadow in this oil on canvas work enhances the dramatic effect, inviting viewers to appreciate the natural splendor of the region.

Historically, Bierstadt's works played a significant role in promoting the idea of westward expansion and the preservation of natural landscapes, influencing the establishment of national parks. His paintings were instrumental in shaping the perception of the American West during the 19th century, contributing to the cultural and artistic narrative of the United States.

Description of the work:

"Merced River, Yosemite Valley" by Albert Bierstadt, created in 1866, is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies the grandeur of the American landscape through the lens of the Hudson River School style. The artwork captures the serene beauty of Yosemite Valley, highlighting Bierstadt's meticulous attention to detail and dramatic use of light to evoke the sublime nature of the American West.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Merced River, Yosemite Valley