Carl Henrik Jonnevold

Hetch Hetchy Valley, c. 1905

• Oil on canvas
• 17.75" x 29.75", artwork
• 21.75" x 33.5" x 2", framed
• Historic

Not Available

Provenance
Consigned to American Legacy Fine Arts, Pasadena, California; By descent to a private collector, Encino, California; Acquired by a private collector, Palo Alto, San Carlos, and Oceanside, California

Description
This expansive landscape by Norwegian-born California artist Carl Henrik Jonnevold captures the dramatic natural beauty of Hetch Hetchy Valley in the Sierra Nevada, often described as Yosemite Valley’s “sister” for its striking granite cliffs, sweeping meadows, and serene waterways. In the foreground, a lone rider with pack mule travels along a dirt path toward the towering rock formations that rise dramatically in the distance. The vertical mass of Kolana Rock dominates the right side of the canvas, its dark form contrasting against the luminous granite walls beyond. As naturalist John Muir observed, “The most strikingly picturesque rock in Hetch Hetchy Valley is a majestic pyramid over 2,000 feet in height which is called by the Indians ‘Kolana.’ It is the outermost of a group like the Cathedral Rocks of Yosemite and occupies the same relative position on the south wall.”
Jonnevold’s precise brushwork and balanced composition reflect his academic European training while his earthy palette and atmospheric handling of light are hallmarks of his mature California style. This work likely predates the controversial Hetch Hetchy Reservoir project (authorized in 1913 and completed in the 1920s), making it an important visual record of the valley in its natural state.

Historical Significance
Hetch Hetchy Valley holds a notable place in American conservation history. Its damming to supply water to San Francisco ignited one of the first major environmental preservation battles, pitting conservationists such as John Muir against urban development interests. Paintings of Hetch Hetchy from before the reservoir’s flooding are rare and highly desirable, both for their scenic beauty and their documentary value.
Carl Henrik Jonnevold, who immigrated to the United States in the 1880s, settled in San Francisco and became known for his landscapes of Northern California, the Sierra Nevada, and Yosemite region. His works are admired for their romantic yet grounded depictions of the West’s untamed wilderness.

Framing
Presented in an ornate, early 20th-century gilt frame, possibly original with the painting, with subtle leaf-and-scroll motifs. The frame is sympathetic to the painting’s period and scale, and while showing some minor wear consistent with age, it enhances the work’s historic character.

Condition
The painting is in very good condition, commensurate with age. Canvas is stable and well-tensioned on the stretcher. Paint surface shows only minimal craquelure in select areas, not distracting. Varnish is clear and even, providing a protective gloss. Frame has minor scuffs and abrasions but remains structurally sound and visually complementary.

Exhibited
Scenic Route: A Half Century of California Discovery, 1900-1950, American Legacy Fine Arts, Pasadena, California, August 15 - October 11, 2025

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