Gilbert Charles Stuart (1755-1828) was an American portrait painter and one time protege of Benjamin West.  He was generally known as a highly gifted artist but not one who was very good at looking after his money.  He painted portraits of many of the most important Americans of his time, including several of George Washington.

John Singleton Copley (1738-1815) was an American born painter.  He is famous for his portrait paintings of important figures in colonial New England, depicting in particular middle-class subjects.  He also did a number of large topgraphical paintings including 'Death of Major Pierson.