Het stadspark van Surabaya 1876 - 1884

Herman Salzwedel captured this evocative photograph, titled ‘Het stadspark van Surabaya,’ offering us a glimpse into a public park in Surabaya. Without a specific date, it's difficult to pinpoint the precise historical moment, yet this image speaks volumes about the colonial gaze and its impact on urban spaces in Indonesia. Think about it: who had access to this park? Whose vision of beauty and order was being imposed upon this landscape? The photograph highlights the intersection of power, space, and identity, inviting us to reflect on the complex layers of colonialism and its lasting effects on both the environment and the people who inhabit it. It's more than just a pretty picture; it's a window into a world shaped by cultural exchange, domination, and the ongoing negotiation of identity.