In this view, Watkins captures the energy of the day to day city life in San Francisco. The time frame is “post Gold Rush” and he shows us a city where the streets are bustling with energy.
In 1868, San Francisco was the largest city on the West Coast and it was the 10th largest city in the country.
Watkins enjoyed much critical acclaim during this period. His exhibition at the Mechanics’ Art Gallery was held in high esteem: “For clearness, strength, and softness of tone, these picturesque views are unexcelled; and while they present truthful presentations of the scene chosen, they are an earnest of the artistic skill of the photographer.” 1
1 Palmquist, Peter. Carleton E. Watkins Photographer of the American West. Albuquerque: University of New Mexico Press, 1983. 37. Print.
|
