Cathedral Rock 1861

Carleton E. Watkins's "Cathedral Rock" (1861) is a stunning example of 19th-century landscape photography. This albumen print captures the sheer scale and grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rock, highlighting the intricate details of its rugged surface. Watkins, a pioneer of American photography, used his large-format camera to create breathtaking images that helped inspire the preservation of Yosemite Valley. This iconic image, part of a series documenting the natural wonders of the American West, remains a testament to Watkins's artistic vision and the timeless beauty of the natural world.