Multnomah Falls Cascade, Columbia River 1867

Carleton Watkins captured this view of Multnomah Falls on a photographic plate, a testament to nature's enduring power. The waterfall, a central motif, plunges dramatically, evoking the classical symbol of a cascading river, often associated with the passage of time and the cycle of life. Throughout art history, we see echoes of this motif. Consider the cascading waters depicted in Roman fountains, symbols of abundance and imperial power. Or, closer to our time, think of Courbet's sources – their crashing waters embodying an untamed natural force. Watkins invites us to reflect on the psychological impact of such a spectacle, a potent reminder of nature's sublime beauty. The waterfall, like a cultural meme, reappears across time, each iteration layering new meanings onto its ancient form. Watkins reminds us that while time flows like a river, certain images possess the remarkable ability to remain, continuously reshaping our understanding of the world.