Buffels 1868 - 1881

Gualtherus Kolff crafted this lithograph print titled 'Buffels', likely in the mid-19th century, capturing scenes of daily life in the Dutch East Indies. The images of water buffalo, or carabao, resonate deeply when viewed through the lens of cultural memory. Observe how these scenes depict the symbiotic relationship between humans and animals in agrarian life. The buffalo, a beast of burden, is here a symbol of labor and sustenance. This echoes ancient motifs where animals embody both brute strength and a connection to the earth. Consider, for example, the bull in Minoan culture—an emblem of power and fertility. The act of harnessing animals for agricultural work is not merely practical, but also carries a psychological weight. It speaks to humanity's ongoing effort to tame nature, to extract resources from the land, and to impose order on the world. This image stirs a primeval recognition, evoking the timeless struggle and collaboration between humans and the natural world. The image evokes this relationship, reminding us of our deep-seated connection to the soil and the animals that help us cultivate it.