Gezicht op het kasteel van Batavia vanaf een ophaalbrug 1750 - 1799

This engraving offers a glimpse into the Dutch colonial presence in Batavia, now Jakarta. Although the artist is unknown, the print captures the meticulous order the Dutch sought to impose on their overseas settlements. Notice the sharp contrast between the figures in the foreground, and those in the background. In the lower left, the artist depicts two men hauling barrels, distinguished by their darker skin tones, suggesting their enslaved status. Their laborious activity contrasts sharply with the European figures strolling casually across the bridge, accompanied by their dog. These stark differences speak volumes about the racial and class hierarchies underpinning the colonial system. The architecture of the castle, with its clean lines and imposing structure, signifies power and control. But the presence of enslaved laborers reminds us of the human cost of this colonial project. It is a reminder that every element of this carefully planned vista was built on the exploitation of others.