Jasper Cropsey, 'Painter of Autumn,' Celebrated for Hudson River School Landscapes

Jasper Francis Cropsey (1823–1900) was an influential American painter associated with the Hudson River School, often referred to as 'The Painter of Autumn' for his striking depictions of fall landscapes. Originally from Staten Island, New York, he initially pursued architecture before dedicating himself to art in the 1840s. Cropsey created more than 50 pieces titled 'autumn,' capturing the essence of autumn foliage in works such as In the Ramapo Valley (1881). He primarily focused on scenes from the northeastern United States, particularly New York and New Jersey, with his wife Maria hailing from Greenwood Lake, a recurring theme in his art. Utilizing chemical-based paints for vivid hues, he painted Autumn on the Hudson River (1860) during his time in London, which he later presented to Queen Victoria. His artwork is housed in various institutions, including the De Young Museum and the National Gallery of Art.