Cliff Palace, Mesa Verde, Colorado

Washington: National Photographic Library, 1907. Rotogravure. Sheet measures 22 1/2" x 28"<br/> <br/> Beautiful photographic diptych of the Cliff Palace in Mesa Verde, Colorado. Published by the National Photographic Library, founded by Dr. Henry Mason Baum. Embossed seal below title, N.P.L. VII in lower left image corner. This print is in very good condition with minor wear at margins. Hard to find.<br> <br> The National Photographic Library was founded in 1906 by Dr. Henry Mason Baum and was among the first institutions to explore reproduction photography for librarianship and educational purposes. While the National Photographic Library's scope and legacy remain obscure, Baum is known for his role in the protection of American archaeological sites. The Records of the Past Exploration Society, which he founded in 1901 and served as president and editor until 1905, conducted archaeological expeditions led by Baum to the American Southwest. Baum worked closely with various government agencies and institutions on initiating legislation for the preservation of public lands and protection of artifacts and ruins, drafting the first bill presented to Congress that eventually passed as the Antiquities Act of 1906.<br/> <br/>