Boom op Ceylon Possibly 1785 - 1786

Jan Brandes made this watercolour titled 'Boom op Ceylon', which translates to 'Tree on Ceylon', likely during his travels in the late 18th century. Immediately, the tree's scale dominates, overshadowing the figure and the dwelling in the background. The composition, with its broad washes of green and grey, establishes a visual hierarchy, subtly emphasizing the tree as a symbol. It's central, monolithic form divides the pictorial space, its presence impossible to ignore. The texture, achieved through delicate layering of watercolour, mimics the density of foliage. The tree's imposing form invites a semiotic reading—perhaps Brandes intended it to represent the perceived dominance of nature over the colonized landscape. This portrayal challenges conventional landscape depictions, emphasizing the power dynamics inherent in colonial encounters, leaving viewers to consider the multiple layers of meaning embedded within.