Frederic Edwin Church (1826-1900) was an American landscape painter known for his large-scale, vivid depictions of nature. A central figure in the Hudson River School, he focused on capturing the beauty of the American wilderness, often incorporating dramatic lighting and rich colors in his works. His paintings often featured scenes from places like the Andes Mountains and the Middle East. Church was also an influential member of the American Romanticism movement, emphasizing emotion and the sublime in nature. His most famous works include "The Heart of the Andes" and "Niagara," which showcase his skill in portraying both grandeur and detail in the natural world.