Nieuwe manieren in Afrika om wilde dieren te temmen 1881

This colorful print, "New ways in Africa to tame wild animals", was made by De Ruyter & Meijer. The lithographic process, while seemingly simple, carries a lot of weight when we consider the image’s implications. Lithography allowed for mass production. These images could be widely distributed, shaping perceptions and reinforcing colonial narratives about Africa and its wildlife. Notice the scenes depicted: animals are trapped, tricked, and dominated by human figures, often with the aid of tools or simple technologies. The flat, graphic quality of the print belies the complex layers of labor and power at play. The artist’s hand is present, yet distanced by the mechanical reproduction. The print serves as a potent reminder of how images, even those that appear innocuous, can perpetuate ideologies and contribute to a broader social and political agenda. It challenges us to consider the role of art not just as representation, but as an active participant in shaping our understanding of the world.