Beroepen 1868 - 1881

Gualtherus Kolff, a 19th-century artist, created this print to depict various occupations in the Dutch East Indies. The work reflects the colonial gaze, presenting an image of Indonesian life intended for a European audience. The print offers a glimpse into the social hierarchy and division of labor in the colonial context. We see figures engaged in activities such as sweeping, washing, and cutting grass. The artist's choice to represent these everyday jobs raises questions about the representation of labor and the identities of the colonized people. Who were these workers? What were their lived experiences under colonial rule? This print serves as a reminder of the power dynamics inherent in colonial representation and prompts reflection on the complex interplay between art, identity, and historical context. As viewers, we are invited to consider the emotional and personal dimensions embedded in these depictions of labor, while acknowledging their role in shaping broader societal narratives.