Fotoalbum van de familie Kleiterp-Vermeulen met opnames van Nederlands-Indië c. 1920 - 1930

This is a photo album by Klaas Kleiterp, likely crafted in the early 20th century, probably using materials sourced from the Dutch East Indies, now Indonesia. The album's cover, with its intriguing, almost geological texture, invites us to consider the art of bookbinding and the cultural significance of preserving memories. The textured effect of the cover is particularly interesting; it mimics a kind of faux-natural material, almost like wood grain or stone, yet it’s clearly a constructed surface. This connects to the wider social context of colonialism, and the way that colonial powers often tried to “naturalize” their presence in foreign lands. Consider the labor involved in the creation of this album; from the sourcing of materials, to the binding and preparation of the album. This photo album wasn't just a container for memories, but a carefully crafted object that reflected the values and aesthetics of its time. It challenges us to look beyond the photographs it contains and appreciate the artistry and social context embedded in its very construction.