Mariposa-bos met sequoia's in Yosemite National Park c. 1880 - 1900

This photograph of the Mariposa Grove of sequoias in Yosemite National Park was taken by Isaiah West Taber, likely in the late 19th century. The image encapsulates a pivotal moment in the cultural history of the American landscape. During this period, the concept of wilderness began to shift from a resource to be exploited, to a treasure to be preserved. This photograph, made in California, visualizes that shift. With its towering trees and quiet path, the photograph emphasizes the sublime grandeur of nature. This was in line with the conservationist ideas that were gaining traction at the time. Photographs like this one played a crucial role in the establishment of national parks. They served as evidence of the natural wonders worth protecting. To truly understand this image, historians delve into the archives of institutions. They look at the records of the National Park Service, the writings of conservationists, and the art market. These are some of the resources that show how the perception and value of landscapes have evolved over time.