Mt. Hood and the Dalles, Columbia River 1867

Carleton Watkins was a prominent figure in 19th-century American photography. This 1867 image, "Mt. Hood and the Dalles, Columbia River," exemplifies his signature style of large-format landscape photography. The composition features a sweeping vista of the Columbia River Valley, with the majestic Mt. Hood dominating the background. Watkins' use of sharp detail and meticulous composition conveys the grandeur and immensity of the natural world. This image offers a glimpse into the early exploration and westward expansion of the American frontier, capturing a moment in time with precision and artistry.