Portret van een gepoederde Chinese vrouw in Chinese dracht zitttend aan een tafel met boeken 1870 - 1900

This small photograph shows a woman in Chinese dress, seated at a table with books, and was taken in Singapore by A. Sachtler. During the late 19th century, photography played a crucial role in shaping Western perceptions of non-Western cultures. This image presents us with a poised subject, embodying both the exoticism and the dignity with which people from different cultures were viewed. The woman's traditional attire and powdered face, coupled with her composed posture, reflect a carefully constructed representation. The setting in Singapore, a bustling port city, adds another layer to the narrative. As a hub of trade and cultural exchange, Singapore was a meeting point between East and West. This photograph captures a moment of intersection, raising questions about identity and representation in a colonial context. The portrait invites us to reflect on how cultural identity is performed, negotiated, and documented through visual media. It reminds us of the power dynamics inherent in image-making and the importance of considering the historical and social context.