Gezicht vanuit Brastagi op de vulkaan Sibayak, Noord-Sumatra 1905 - 1920

This photograph by Y. Asada shows a view from Brastagi towards the Sibayak volcano in Northern Sumatra. The serene landscape hints at the complex colonial history of Indonesia. Made during the Dutch colonial period, this image likely served to promote the natural beauty and tranquility of the region, enticing European settlers and investors. The carefully composed scene, with the majestic volcano in the background and lush greenery in the foreground, masks the social and political tensions of the time. The presence of a small building nestled among the trees suggests a human presence, possibly a colonial outpost or plantation, further emphasizing the imposition of European culture on the landscape. To fully understand this photograph, it's essential to delve into the archives and examine historical accounts, colonial records, and indigenous perspectives. Only then can we fully grasp the power dynamics and cultural exchanges that shaped this seemingly idyllic scene.