Chinese people and a travelling companion in Shanghai before 1908

This black and white photograph, taken before 1908 by Geldolph Adriaan Kessler, captures a snapshot of life in Shanghai. It depicts a group of Chinese people, some in traditional clothing, alongside a European traveler. The photograph, part of the Rijksmuseum collection, showcases the cultural exchange and everyday interactions that occurred during this period in Chinese history. The composition, focused on the figures, provides a glimpse into the social dynamics of the time. Kessler's photograph, a testament to his photographic talent, offers a unique window into the past, capturing both the beauty and complexities of Shanghai in the early 20th century.