Struiken c. 1816 - 1846

Adrianus Johannes Bik created this drawing titled 'Struiken' with pen in gray ink and pencil. The inscription at the bottom refers to imitation Kawi script, which was used in Java and other parts of Southeast Asia. Bik, born in the late 18th century, lived through a transformative period shaped by European colonialism. The Dutch East India Company held significant power in the region. This piece invites us to consider the cultural dynamics between the colonizers and the colonized. The artist's attempt to imitate Kawi script reflects a fascination with a culture that was both exoticized and subjugated by colonial forces. It’s also a reminder of the power dynamics inherent in representation, where the act of imitation can carry undertones of appropriation or appreciation. The detailed rendering of local flora contrasts with the symbolic script, prompting reflections on identity, cultural exchange, and the legacies of colonialism. The drawing is an emotional and personal encounter with a complex history.