Poeri te Lingsar met soldaten tijdens Lombok-expeditie 1894 before 1898

Christiaan Johan Neeb captured this photograph, "Poeri te Lingsar met soldaten tijdens Lombok-expeditie 1894," during the Dutch colonial expedition on the island of Lombok. Imagine the scene in 1894: Dutch soldiers occupy the sacred space of the Poeri te Lingsar, a temple complex symbolizing religious harmony to the local population. In the foreground, a lone figure fishes, seemingly indifferent to the military presence. The soldiers' disciplined lines contrast sharply with the serene waters and lush foliage, creating a visual tension that speaks volumes about power dynamics. This image reflects the intersection of colonial ambition and cultural disruption. Consider the perspective of the Balinese people, witnessing their sacred spaces being claimed. "Poeri te Lingsar met soldaten tijdens Lombok-expeditie 1894" compels us to reflect on the legacy of colonialism and its lasting impact on identity, spirituality, and place.