On the Contemplation of Nature. One of the most popular artists of his generation, the German Romantic painter Caspar David Friedrich is known for his allegorical landscapes, which express a profound sense of introspection and melancholy. The year 2024 marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of this extraordinary artist, whose paintings continue to grow in influence—rarely is a discussion on climate change held without reference to one of his iconic works, like The Sea of Ice, as a silent witness. Barbara Hess examines the work and life of the artist, from his enduring emotions to the major themes of Romanticism and painting. In the timeless form of an A–Z book, the author takes us on a contemporary adventure, showing how new insights and perspectives can be gained from what has long been considered familiar.