Tabaksveld op het Bindjey Estate van de Deli-Batavia Maatschappij op Sumatra (op dag van aanplant) c. 1900 - 1920

This photograph, taken on the Bindjey Estate of the Deli-Batavia Maatschappij on Sumatra, captures the very first day of planting. The monochromatic tones really draw me into the textures of the land and buildings, the dirt and the straw, they all feel so tactile. The lack of vivid color emphasizes the composition's linearity, with those neat rows and the sharp angles of the buildings creating a stark contrast against the organic forms of the plants. It makes me think about the photographer’s deliberate choices. The eye is led down the central path, flanked by symmetrical fields. It's all about control, isn't it? I find it particularly interesting how the photographer captures light and shadow to create such a strong sense of depth and atmosphere. It reminds me a little of Eugène Atget, and his photographic documents of Parisian life. Ultimately, this image transcends its documentary purpose, becoming a study in form and texture, and an open ended meditation on the human relationship to landscape.