The Great Southwest (Illustrated Souvenir Book)
Illustrated publication / Print media on paper bound in cardstock • Published by Fred Harvey (attributed to various frontier artists like E.I. Couse or similar Santa Fe Railway artists)
Style & Movement
Americana / Western Frontier Art / Romantic Realism
Medium & Technique
Color lithographic or halftone printing (likely Fred Harvey style 'phostint' or similar color process) on paper
Creation Period
Early 20th Century (circa 1910–1925)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 9 inches; Portrait orientation book format
Subject Description
Images of Native American life and landscapes of the Southwestern United States. The cover features 'The First Santa Fe Train' depicting a caravan of riders and pack animals.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Fair; Visible corner wear and slight fraying on the spine edge
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$40 - $100 USD
Provenance History
Mass-produced commercial souvenir for tourists traveling on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway
Art Historical Significance
Represents the early 20th-century romanticization of the American West and the commercialization of Southwestern indigenous culture for tourism
Notable Features
Features the iconic Fred Harvey branding and stylized typography associated with early 20th-century luxury Southwestern travel
Condition Issues
Edge wear, light foxing possible inside, minor discoloration of the dark cardstock cover, and bumping of corners
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in an acid-free archival sleeve; store in a cool, dry environment away from direct UV sunlight to prevent further color fading