Souvenir van Jogjakarta; fotoalbum aangeboden aan J.M. Pijnacker Hordijk 1886 - 1888

This photo album was made by Kassian Céphas, probably in Yogyakarta, with locally sourced textiles and metalwork. Notice the contrast between the plain, woven cover and the elaborate metal embellishments. The cover, likely dyed with local materials, has a tactile quality. By contrast, the metal decoration shows a high level of craftsmanship. The metal was likely cast using molds, perhaps employing the cire-perdue, or lost wax method. The motifs are floral, and appear to have been applied separately and then joined, creating a layered, dimensional effect. The album reminds us that so-called ‘fine art’ does not have a monopoly on skill or creativity. This object reflects a complex cultural exchange, combining local materials and craftsmanship with European aesthetic sensibilities. Céphas was one of the first Javanese to become a photographer, who with this album made a beautiful and lasting document of a particular time and place.