Crescent Lake, at head of the Merced River, Mariposa Co. 1870

"Crescent Lake, at head of the Merced River, Mariposa Co." is a stereoscopic photograph by John P. Soule from 1870. This image depicts a serene landscape featuring a crescent-shaped lake, surrounded by towering trees, and a figure standing next to a horse on the lakeshore. The stereoscopic effect, achieved through two slightly offset images, creates a three-dimensional view of the scene, inviting the viewer to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Yosemite Valley. This photograph, part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection, captures the grandeur of the American West during the 19th century.