Portret van Nathan B. Phillips before 1886

This portrait of Nathan B. Phillips, found within the pages of an old book, provides a glimpse into the narratives and representations of individuals in the Yosemite Valley's past. Though the artist is anonymous, this work captures the spirit of the late 19th century, when Yosemite was being ‘discovered’ and promoted as a tourist destination. Phillips is shown on horseback, his attire suggesting a rugged, outdoorsy persona. Consider how this image fits into the broader context of landscape and identity, particularly concerning the romanticized vision of the American West, and the place of indigenous communities within these visual narratives. This portrait invites us to reflect on the historical narratives surrounding Yosemite and the figures who shaped its early identity. What stories do we tell about this land, and whose voices are included or excluded in these accounts?