Halteplaats nabij Peking, met daarvoor muilezels en een koets before 1883

This photograph, taken by Hugues Krafft, shows a rest stop near Peking, featuring mules and a carriage. The image offers a glimpse into China during a period of significant social and economic change, influenced by increasing contact with Western powers. Krafft, a Western photographer, captures a moment in which traditional modes of transport – the mules and carriage – are juxtaposed against the backdrop of a changing society. The photograph becomes a visual document of cultural exchange, capturing the intersection of local customs and the presence of foreign influence. This image reflects the evolving dynamics between China and the West. By examining the visual codes within the photograph and researching the historical context of China's interaction with Western powers, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex social forces at play during this period. Such images, when viewed through a social-historical lens, become valuable resources for understanding cultural shifts and power dynamics.