Woonhuis 1863 - 1866

Woodbury & Page created this photograph titled ‘Woonhuis’, which translates to dwelling or house, using albumen silver print. This image gives us a glimpse into the colonial era and raises questions about identity, power, and representation. The photograph depicts what would have been the typical home of a European family living in the Dutch East Indies, now Indonesia. The architecture speaks to a desire to recreate a European lifestyle in a tropical environment, while it also stands in stark contrast to the local dwellings. We can’t help but wonder, who are these people sitting on the veranda? Are they colonizers, administrators, or merchants? What relationships do they have with the local population? How does the image contribute to the construction of a colonial identity? The image evokes a sense of distance, both physical and social. It reminds us of the complexities and contradictions inherent in colonial history. It encourages us to reflect on the legacy of colonialism and its impact on the world we inhabit today.