Arbeider op een olifant versleept boomstammen in een stuk gekapt oerwoud in Lau-Boentoe, Sumatra c. 1890 - 1900

Heinrich Ernst & Co. captured this image of an elephant hauling logs in Lau-Boentoe, Sumatra. This photograph invites us to consider the historical and cultural context of colonial resource extraction and its impact on both the environment and local populations. Here, we witness the labor of both the worker and the elephant, set against the backdrop of deforestation. The image offers a glimpse into the lives of those who were employed in these industries, often under harsh conditions. What does it mean to witness the disruption of this landscape? The logs, piled high, represent a transformation of natural resources into commodities. While this image may seem to document progress, it also speaks to a more complex story of environmental change and cultural disruption. It asks us to consider the long-term effects of such practices and the ethics of resource management. It invites reflection on the emotional and ethical implications of transforming a landscape for economic gain.