Chromolithograph poster, 22.25 x 29.25 in., mounted on linen, 33.75 x 27 in. Dr. W.F. Carver As He Appeared Before the Emperor of Germany and Thirty Thousand Officers and Soldiers at Potsdam, June 13th 1880. Baltimore, MD: A. Hoen & Co., n.d., ca 1880.William Frank “Doc” Carver (1851-1927) migrated to the West in 1872 practicing dentistry across Nebraska, where he initially met Buffalo Bill Cody. It is during his time as a plainsman where he began to acquire his skills as a marksman and horseback rider. Upon moving to California in 1876, he began to win shooting awards and touring. In 1879, he embarked for Europe where he performed for both commoners and nobility for several years. Upon his return to the United States, Carver partnered with Buffalo Bill Cody in 1883 to create the Wild West exhibition. Although the show was wildly successful, the partnership was volatile, and the two parted ways after the first season with Carver later producing a show of his own.This scarce poster features the legendary sharpshooter on horseback firing his rifle before a gathered crowd on June 13, 1880 during Carver’s European stint. The poster touts the attendance of the Emperor and Empress of Germany (Wilhelm I and Augusta of Saxe-Weimar) as well as “Their Royal Highnesses, Prince and Princess of Wales” (Albert Edward, the future King Edward VII and Alexandra of Denmark). Carver is billed as the “Evil Spirit of the Plains,” the colorful stage name he gained while in California.