Martin Johnson Heade (August 11, 1819-September 4, 1904) was a prolific American painter known for his salt marsh landscapes, seascapes, portraits of tropical birds, and still lifes. Martin Johnson Heade painting style and subject matter, while derived from the romanticism of the time, is regarded by art historians as a significant departure from that of his peers. Martin Johnson Heade was not a famous artist during his time, and for much of the first part of the 20th century was nearly forgotten. A re-awakening of interest in American 19th century art around World War II sparked new appreciation of his work, and art historians have come to consider him as one of the most important American artists of his generation. Martin Johnson Heade Paintings have inspired contemporary artists, and these paintings are in most major American museums. In 2004, Martin Johnson Heade was honored with a stamp from the U.S. Postal Service featuring his 1890 oil-on-canvas painting, "Giant Magnolias on a Blue Velvet Cloth."