Caspar David Friedrich
Caspar David Friedrich (1774–1840) was a German Romantic painter, widely regarded as one of the most important figures in Western art for his evocative landscapes that explored the sublime power of nature. Born in Greifswald, Germany, Friedrich trained at the Copenhagen Academy before establishing himself as a leading Romantic artist in Dresden. His paintings are known for their melancholic beauty and deep spiritual resonance, often depicting figures dwarfed by vast, atmospheric landscapes. Friedrich’s works frequently evoke a sense of solitude and introspection, with subjects such as ruined abbeys, soaring mountains, and contemplative figures set against dramatic skies.
Friedrich’s art was deeply influenced by his religious beliefs and his view of nature as a manifestation of the divine. His works, such as Wanderer above the Sea of Fog and The Monk by the Sea, have become iconic representations of Romanticism's exploration of emotion, nature, and the human spirit. Although his work fell into obscurity after his death, Friedrich was rediscovered in the early 20th century and is now considered one of the most important landscape painters in art history. His works are housed in major museums such as the Alte Nationalgalerie in Berlin and the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg.
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Full Name: Caspar David Friedrich
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Birth and Death: 1774–1840
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Profession: Romantic Landscape Painter
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Influences: German Romanticism, Religious Symbolism
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Legacy: One of the most iconic Romantic painters, Friedrich’s works are held in major institutions like the Alte Nationalgalerie in Berlin.
