Portret van een Indonesische soldaat 1857 - 1880

Woodbury and Page created this photographic portrait of an Indonesian soldier, though we don’t know exactly when. Its cultural context lies in the colonial history of Indonesia. The image reflects the complex social dynamics of the time. The soldier's uniform marks him as part of the colonial military structure, yet his bare feet subtly challenge this imposed identity. It evokes questions about power, assimilation, and resistance within a colonial framework. The formal pose, common in Western portraiture, is juxtaposed with the soldier's Indonesian features, creating a visual dialogue between colonizer and colonized. Delving into archives and historical records can reveal the intricate details of Woodbury and Page's studio, the role of Indonesian soldiers in the colonial army, and the broader socio-political context in which this photograph was produced. This image encapsulates a moment of cultural exchange and tension, inviting us to reflect on the legacies of colonialism.