Bezoek van de prins van Fisen aan boord van het raderstoomschip Zr.Ms Gedeh 1862

This lithograph depicts a scene of cultural exchange between a European vessel and Japanese dignitaries. Though anonymous, this image speaks volumes about the politics of representation during a period of intense globalization. The work likely comes from the mid-19th century, a time when European powers were aggressively expanding their influence, particularly in Asia. The print subtly portrays the dynamic between colonizer and colonized. The clear depiction of the European ship, contrasted with the more generalized depiction of the Japanese delegation, suggests a claim to technological and cultural dominance. Consider the conventions of maritime painting, which were often used to project power and prestige. This work echoes those traditions while also hinting at the complex negotiations and cultural encounters that defined the era. To fully understand this image, we might consult historical records of diplomatic missions, accounts of cross-cultural encounters, and studies of the visual culture of colonialism. Only then can we appreciate how this artwork reflects the social conditions of its time.