East Indies · 19th century
€ 250
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Wear consistent with age and use. Very good for age. Minimal toning/spots in margins consistent with antique paper. Image strong and clean. Never framed.
Sorting Tobacco in Lengths and Colors, Sumatra — Kleingrothe Photogravure c.1900
This original early 20th-century photogravure captures tobacco workers inside a large sorting facility on a Deli plantation in North Sumatra (Indonesia), during the Dutch colonial era. Photographed by Carl Josef Kleingrothe, the scene shows the highly organized process of grading and sorting tobacco leaves by quality, length, and color — a crucial step in preparing Sumatra’s world-famous wrapper tobacco for export to cigar manufacturers in Europe and the United States.
Kleingrothe’s plantation images are among the most historically important and visually compelling records of the colonial tobacco industry: they depict not only the industrial scale of production, but also the day-to-day labor of local workers who shaped this global commodity trade. His photogravures were published in limited numbers for plantation owners and business partners, making original impressions scarce today, especially in such fine condition.
The print retains its wide original margins and clear detailed plate impression, preserving both the artwork and its historical character. A striking collector’s piece ideal for interiors that celebrate industrial heritage, Southeast Asian history, or fine early photography.
Condition:
Very good for age. Minimal toning/spots in margins consistent with antique paper. Image strong and clean. Never framed.
Framing Suggestion:
A dark wood or black frame with a natural white mat will elevate the sepia tones and highlight the strong architectural lines of the tobacco warehouse interior.
Technique: Photogravure
Maker: C.J. Kleingrothe, Medan (Sumatra), c.1900
