Portret van een Indonesische man met zoon 1857 - 1880

This photograph by Woodbury & Page captures an Indonesian man with his son in a studio setting. The composition is strikingly formal, with the subjects arranged to emphasize a visual structure that speaks volumes about representation and identity. Notice the stark contrast between the man's dark attire and the lighter clothing of his son, creating a play of light and shadow that divides the photograph into distinct visual planes. The father's seated posture and direct gaze command authority, while the son stands at his side. The patterned textiles and the ornate chair introduce complex textures that invite us to consider the cultural codes embedded within the image. The meticulous arrangement suggests a deliberate construction of identity, framed within the colonial gaze. It is a compelling exploration of how photography functions not merely as a record, but as a powerful tool in shaping perceptions and reinforcing social hierarchies.