Kanaal op de Stabat plantage, Sumatra c. 1890 - 1900

This photograph titled, "Kanaal op de Stabat plantage, Sumatra" was created by Heinrich Ernst & Co. The image captures a canal within the Stabat plantation in Sumatra, and its placid surface reflects both the sky and the surrounding vegetation. On the bank, a cluster of figures, presumably plantation workers, stand alongside modest dwellings, providing a glimpse into their living conditions and social structures within this colonial enterprise. This image offers a window into the complex dynamics of colonialism, reflecting the exploitation of land and labor, while raising questions about the identities and lived experiences of those who were part of this system. The photograph invites reflection on the human cost of economic and imperial expansion. Though seemingly a tranquil scene, "Kanaal op de Stabat plantage, Sumatra" encapsulates a narrative of power, labor, and the shaping of landscapes by colonial forces. The photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the interwoven histories that continue to shape our world.