Panorama van de Waterkant van Paramaribo c. 1925 - 1937

Augusta Curiel’s panoramic photograph captures the waterfront of Paramaribo, likely in the early 20th century. It offers a glimpse into a society shaped by Dutch colonialism. The image presents a tranquil view of the city from across the Suriname River. Visually, the orderly arrangement of buildings, with the subtle grandeur of the architecture, reflects a desire to project an image of stability. We have to remember, though, that this was a society built on the exploitation of enslaved African people. Curiel was a woman of African descent who operated a successful photography studio in Paramaribo with her sister. The archive of Curiel's studio offers insights into the complexities of Surinamese society. By researching the social conditions, the economic structures and institutional histories of Suriname at that time, we are better placed to understand the meanings we can take from this image today.