Lithograph. Drawn by Charles Nahl, lithographed by L. Nagel Print. On India paper backed with linen. 65.5x51 cm (25¾x20"), matted loose in corner mounts.
Rare and desirable membership certificate in the Society of California Pioneers, with early views of California, San Francisco and the Bay area, which have since become iconic. From the top left, clockwise, we see gold miners panning for gold, Sutter’s Fort, Yosemite Valley, the Big Trees Grove at Yosemite (or Calaveras?), the Golden Gate, California natives in front of the Mission. a view of San Francisco, a Vaquero roping a steer; and in the center, a hunter and a California bear on the left, a miner and his tools right, and between them the Bear Flag raising. D. Hoffman Burrows was member number 73, quite early, all considered. The certificate is signed in ink by Alexdr. Abell President, and Wm. R. Wheaton Secretary.
Moreland L. Stevens, “Charles Christian Nahl: Artist of the Gold Rush, 1818-1878” #80, states “A contract for the certificate was signed on 21 December 1858, which would make the date of publication sometime in 1859.” Peters, American on Stone, plate 106; Peters, California on Stone, p. 173.