Graven te M'banza Congo 1896

This photograph, titled "Graven te M'banza Congo," was created by Franz Thonner, who lived from 1863 to 1928. Thonner's photograph captures a burial site in M'banza Congo, revealing a complex interplay of identity and colonial history. During this period, European exploration and colonization deeply impacted African societies, influencing both representation and lived experiences. The photograph serves as a visual record of the region, yet it also prompts questions about the power dynamics inherent in its creation. How did Thonner's presence as a European photographer shape the image and its reception? What aspects of Congolese culture and identity are highlighted or overlooked in this representation? By examining the image through an intersectional lens, we can reflect on the intertwined histories of colonialism, cultural exchange, and representation. Ultimately, this photograph invites us to consider the diverse narratives that emerge when engaging with art from different cultural perspectives.