Circa 1876

Joachim Ferdinand Richardt (b. Brede, Denmark, April 10, 1819; d. Oakland, California, October 29, 1895). San Francisco at Night from Telegraph Hill, n.d. Oil on canvas, 30-3/4 x 70-3/4 in. Reproduced by Anchor Brewing Co. from the original, courtesy of The Society of California Pioneers.

Richardt "has just finished at his studio, 534 Ellis street, a view of San Francisco by moonlight—a picture so immeasurably superior to the usual conventional moonlight studies as to demand especial notice. The standpoint is on Telegraph Hill, and takes in a view somewhat to the west of Gov. Stanford’s residence [California & Powell], and extending to the bay, near Folsom street.… The whole tone of the picture is quiet; the dim twilight, when the sun’s departing light is not entirely gone, and the climbing moon adds its cold illumination. In the foreground, the warm light from open doors and windows contrasts well with the silvery reflection of the moon upon the Bay, and the surrounding hills beyond the Mission, whose dim outlines have a grand effect in the distance. The whole picture is exceedingly artistic, and presents the city in a most romantic and striking manner, novel, yet faithful."—Daily Alta California, November 22, 1876

Landmarks include the Selby shot tower (1st & Howard), the original Palace Hotel, "Old" St. Mary’s, the chimneys of the U.S. Branch Mint (5th & Mission), the domed towers of Sutter Street Synagogue (Temple Emanu-El), Grace Church (California & Stockton), and St. Francis Church (Vallejo & Montgomery Avenue—now Columbus).

More about San Francisco at Night from Telegraph Hill

More about The Society of California Pioneers

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