Brug over de Brantas bij Djadjar 1880 - 1888

Herman Salzwedel captured this photograph titled 'Brug over de Brantas bij Djadjar.' At first glance, we see a bridge and a river, but let's consider the historical context. This photograph offers a glimpse into the colonial era, reflecting the infrastructure development undertaken in colonized lands. The bridge symbolizes progress and connectivity, yet it also represents the imposition of foreign powers and their economic interests. Consider the figures on the riverbank. Who are they? What is their relationship to this new structure? Are they workers, observers, or perhaps people displaced by the construction? Their presence invites us to reflect on the human impact of such large-scale projects, and to consider the complex interplay of power, labor, and identity during this period. This image presents a moment of both construction and disruption. It encourages us to contemplate the legacies of colonialism and their impact on individual lives.