Gezicht op het kerkhof te Ampenan met het graf van Luitenant Van der Heyden before 1897

Christiaan Johan Neeb created this photograph titled 'View of the cemetery at Ampenan with the grave of Lieutenant Van der Heyden.' At the turn of the 20th century, photography was used to document and promote colonial power. This image reflects the social hierarchy of colonial Indonesia, where Dutch military officers held significant authority. While seemingly a simple depiction of a gravesite, the photograph subtly reinforces the narrative of Dutch presence and dominance in the region. The choice of subject matter—a Dutch lieutenant's grave—highlights the personal and emotional dimensions of colonialism. It also speaks to the complexities of identity and belonging in a colonial context, raising questions about who is remembered, whose stories are told, and whose perspectives are marginalized. Consider the power dynamics at play. The image is a poignant reminder of how personal narratives are interwoven with broader historical and political forces, shaping our understanding of the past and present.