Sabang Port, Pulau Weh – Kleingrothe Dutch East Indies Coaling Photo c.1910
€ 330
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1910
Sheet size
45 × 34 cm (17.7 × 13.4 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-05079-6
Condition
Condition report: Very good. Clean prints with rich photogravure tones. Minor scattered foxing and light toning to the surrounding card mount, not affecting the images. No tears, losses, or creases. Verso clean.
About this sheet
Sabang Port and Coaling Station, Pulau Weh — C.J. Kleingrothe, ca. 1910 Photogravure Plate from the portfolio “Sumatra’s O.K.”
Two important documentary views of the port of Sabang on Pulau Weh, located at the northern tip of Sumatra. Sabang served as one of the most significant harbors of the Dutch East Indies in the early 20th century, operating as the main coaling and provisioning station where international steamships refueled before crossing the Indian Ocean or entering the Strait of Malacca. These images belong among the most historically interesting plates in the entire portfolio.
The upper image shows an elevated view across the bay toward the harbor infrastructure, warehouses, and hillside settlement. The lower image depicts a Dutch mail steamer moored at the main pier, surrounded by small boats and coaling platforms. These scenes reflect the bustling maritime operations that connected Sumatra’s plantation economy to global trade networks.
C.J. Kleingrothe’s studio in Medan produced the most extensive photographic record of East Sumatra at the height of industrial and commercial expansion. His documentation of Sabang is comparatively scarcer than his plantation and Medan city views, making this plate particularly appealing to collectors of maritime, colonial, and transport history. With strong tones and excellent detail preserved in both images, this sheet offers a rare and visually compelling look at one of the most vital ports of the region.
Condition report: Very good. Clean prints with rich photogravure tones. Minor scattered foxing and light toning to the surrounding card mount, not affecting the images. No tears, losses, or creases. Verso clean.
Framing tips: Because of the dual-image layout, a wider vertical window mat works well. A dark wood or matte black frame enhances contrast with the industrial and maritime elements. UV-protective glass recommended.
Technique: Photogravure on original card mount Maker: C.J. Kleingrothe, Medan, ca. 1910 Printer: J.B. Obernetter, München
Keywords: Sabang, Pulau Weh, Dutch East Indies, steamship, coaling station, maritime history, Medan shipping, Indonesia harbor, colonial photography, Southeast Asian port history
