Mountain Landscape 

Albert Bierstadt made this oil on canvas painting known as 'Mountain Landscape', but the exact date of its creation remains unknown. Bierstadt was a key figure in the Hudson River School, a mid-19th century American art movement. These artists shared a vision: to capture the sublime beauty of the American landscape. This wasn't just about pretty pictures; it was deeply intertwined with the concept of Manifest Destiny. Think of it: as America expanded westward, these grand landscapes fuelled the idea that it was the nation’s God-given right to expand its dominion and spread democracy and capitalism across the entire continent. It also helped grow a sense of national pride, particularly in institutions such as the National Academy of Design. To fully appreciate Bierstadt's work, historians dig into the cultural and political context of 19th-century America. They visit archives and libraries, and reassess historical interpretations. This way, we can better understand art's role in shaping national identity and influencing social attitudes.