Fotoportret van een gekleurde man, waarschijnlijk Charles Douglas. 1898 - 1902

This is a photograph of a coloured man, likely Charles Douglas, by C.J. Chapman. The gentleman is adorned in a dark suit, waistcoat, and a pristine white bow tie, gazing into the distance. Consider the colour black, and how it has historically been used in paintings and other artworks to denote power, elegance, and seriousness. Think of the black robes worn by monarchs, judges, and academics. Now observe the presence of the colour white. White has signified purity and virtue, as seen in wedding dresses and religious vestments. The deliberate arrangement of the black suit against the white bow tie signifies a conscious embrace of dignity and status, reflecting a desire to challenge prevailing stereotypes. This image is more than a static portrayal. It's a cultural echo, a symbol of resilience and a testament to the struggle for recognition. The colours black and white—ever in dialogue—continue to shape our perceptions and inform our cultural narrative.