The Pageant of History in Northern California -- its colorful and adventuresome beginnings

San Francisco: American Trust Company, 1954. Map. Birds eye view, Lithogravure. 14 7/8 x 21 1/4 inches.

This scarce mid-century map of northern California was produced by Millard Sheets, who was commissioned by American Trust Company for the state of California's 100th Anniversary. Beautifully composed with swirling images of flora, fauna, indigenous people, gold rush and industry in floating circle above geographical features, the map gorgeously illustrates the history and culture of the San Francisco Bay Area. This map is in very good condition, with wide margins as issued. Pinholes to corners and some edgewear, not affecting the image.
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Millard Owen Sheets (1907-1989) was an American artist, teacher, and architectural designer. He was one of the earliest of the California Scene Painting artists and helped define the art movement. Many of his large-scale building-mounted mosaics from the mid-20th century are still extant in Southern California. This is a wonderful example of his work. (Inventory #: 326163)