[Yosemite National Park, California] 1876 - 1880

Carleton E. Watkins's "Yosemite National Park, California" (1876–80) is a striking albumen print that showcases the grandeur of the Yosemite Valley. The circular format draws the viewer into the scene, highlighting the dramatic landscape of towering cliffs, a meandering river, and dense forests. Watkins was a pioneer in landscape photography, renowned for his large-format, detailed images that captured the scale and beauty of the American West. This photograph, with its meticulous detail and evocative composition, stands as a testament to the power of nature and the artistry of Watkins's vision.