De Kali Mas 1876 - 1884

Herman Salzwedel captured ‘De Kali Mas’ using photography, a relatively new medium in the 19th century. Photography, as a mode of production, made images accessible and reproducible in ways previously unimaginable. The tones, textures, and details visible in this albumen print are all a direct result of the chemical processes involved. The image is made through a combination of scientific precision and the artist’s aesthetic choices. What's striking is the way this technology frames the river; the composition focuses our attention not just on the waterway itself, but also the buildings lining the riverbanks. This juxtaposition invites reflection on the relationship between human settlement and the natural world, hinting at the labor and resources required to build and maintain these structures. By considering photography as both a craft and a technological innovation, we gain a richer understanding of its cultural impact and social implications, blurring the lines between art, industry, and everyday life.