Titelpagina voor het pamflet: De Geplukte Tapoeijer, 1702 1702

Romeyn de Hooghe created this etching as the title page for the pamphlet "De Geplukte Tapoeijer" in 1702. It reflects the complex dynamics of Dutch colonialism in the Americas. The artwork depicts a scene of exploitation and violence. A figure, representing an Indigenous person, is attacked by predatory birds, symbolizing the Dutch colonizers. The term "Tapoeijer" itself is derogatory, suggesting the Indigenous people are being plucked or exploited. This imagery points to the unequal power dynamics inherent in colonial relationships, where Indigenous populations were often stripped of their resources and autonomy. De Hooghe’s work invites us to reflect on the historical narratives that underpin our understanding of colonialism. It serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of empire and the enduring legacy of colonial violence on Indigenous communities. The emotional impact is undeniable, forcing us to confront uncomfortable truths about the past.