Ethnography · 20th century
€ 240
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good for age. Soft age-toning and scattered foxing in the outer margins, image area clean and well-preserved. Full margins intact.
Chinese Temple by the River — Medan, Sumatra (c.1910)
A beautiful original photogravure produced circa 1910 by G.R. Kleingrothe in Medan, Sumatra, showing a peaceful riverbank framed by dense tropical vegetation, leading the eye to a small Chinese temple nestled in the background. The composition uses the sweeping foliage as a natural arch that draws focus to the architectural landmark, capturing both the cultural diversity and rich geography of North Sumatra at the end of the 19th century.
Chinese communities were essential to the commercial development of Sumatra, and temples like the one seen here played a central role in religious and social life. This print serves as a rare early document of their historic presence before rapid 20th-century expansion transformed these landscapes.
The lush tonal quality and large sheet size make this a striking display piece, ideal for collectors of Indonesian history, Asian diaspora heritage, architectural photography, or early documentary work from the Dutch East Indies.
Condition: Very good for age. Soft age-toning and scattered foxing in the outer margins, image area clean and well-preserved. Full margins intact.
Framing tips: A thin dark wood or black teak frame combined with a soft-white archival mat will enhance the subtle sepia tones and bring focus to key details in the central scene.
Technique: Photogravure
Maker: G.R. Kleingrothe, Medan, Sumatra (c.1910)
