An autopsy is planned for famed painter Thomas Kinkade, who died unexpectedly Friday at age 54.

Kinkade was a devout Christian and called himself the "Painter of Light."

His paintings of landscapes, cottages, and churches are easily recognizable, and can be found in around 10 million homes across the United States.

Many of his works contain images from Bible passages.

"It is clear that everyday people need an art they can enjoy, believe in, and understand," he wrote in a catalog to the 2004 show.

Kinkade died at his home in Los Gatos, Calif., from what officials say appears to be natural causes.