Scenes on the Pacific Coast.

Description

Scenes of the Pacific Coast is a vivacious 1880 lithograph featuring a compilation of vignettes derived from original sketches and photographs by renowned American artist Charles Frederick Keller. This striking lithograph was published as a supplement to the Illustrated Wasp magazine (vol. 5, no. 229), issued on Christmas Day that year. Keller’s collection is an ode to the diversity and scenic beauty of the West Coast during California’s early industrial era.

The lithograph encapsulates the essence of the Pacific Coast through a series of dynamic and gorgeous vignettes that capture key landmarks and facets of life on America’s Pacific Rim. Each vignette portrays a distinct aspect of the region’s cultural, industrial, and natural highlights, from the iconic Missions of California to the state’s bustling harbors, which feature a plethora of different ships, as well as the advent of railroads. Keller captures all of these crucial elements in California’s rapidly evolving landscape.

The vignettes span a wide array of subjects, from the majestic Yosemite Valley to the bustling cityscape of San Francisco to specific landmarks like the Cliff House and Mission Dolores. In unison, these evocative images provide a highly diversified impression of the region’s historic architecture and natural wonders like the Calaveras Big Trees and Vernal Falls in Yosemite Valley. As a promotion of the West Coast, Keller’s lithograph also delves into an array of maritime activities with depictions of California whaling, the Mare Island Navy Yard, and scenes portraying ships traversing the Golden Gate.

The print’s high artistic quality lies in its ability to transport the viewer across the diverse landscapes of America’s Pacific Coast. Its vivid and detailed portrayal of the various scenes offers a comprehensive glimpse into the multifaceted tapestry of life, culture, industry, and natural beauty along the western frontier during that era.

Census

We have identified only a single institutional holding of this rare print at the California State Library (Calisphere identifier 001453180CSL01-Aleph). The OCLC does not list any institutional holdings.