[Yosemite National Park, California] 1876 - 1880

Carleton E. Watkins's 1876-1880 albumen print, “[Yosemite National Park, California]”, captures the grandeur of the Yosemite Valley in a circular format. The towering granite cliffs reflected in the still water create a sense of awe and serenity. Watkins, known for his large-format landscape photography, documented the American West, playing a pivotal role in shaping public perception of the region. This print showcases his mastery of composition and light, revealing the dramatic beauty of the natural world.