Portret van een acteur verkleed als Chinees met waaier c. 1890 - 1910

This portrait of an actor in Chinese costume, holding a fan, was created by Fred Ash, likely during the late 19th or early 20th century, a period marked by growing Western fascination with, and misrepresentation of, Asian cultures. Consider the context: Western theater often appropriated and exoticized non-Western cultures, a practice deeply rooted in colonialism. This image captures an actor, presumably white, donning a costume that reduces Chinese identity to mere spectacle. Note how the actor's exaggerated mustache and the flamboyant fan contrast with what might have been considered traditional garments, reinforcing stereotypes. Such depictions reflect a complex interplay of cultural exchange, power dynamics, and racial biases. They raise questions about authenticity, representation, and the ethical responsibilities of artists and performers. It invites us to reflect on the history of cultural appropriation and its lasting impact on how we perceive identity.