The Netherlands & Belgium
€ 220
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good antique condition. Light age toning and scattered foxing in margins, image areas clean and strong. Wide original margins intact.
Medan Esplanade & Sultan Deli Palace, Antique Photogravure Pair by C.J. Kleingrothe, Sumatra c.1900
This original early 20th-century photogravure features two historic views of Medan, the capital of North Sumatra during the Dutch East Indies period. Created by C.J. Kleingrothe, one of the most important photographers active in Sumatra at the time, the work documents both civic and royal environments in the flourishing Deli region.
The upper image presents the Medan Esplanade, a long, tree-lined public space that formed one of the central social and ceremonial axes of the rapidly growing colonial city. Mature trees cast a dramatic canopy overhead, illustrating the careful urban planning and landscaped civic areas that characterized early Medan.
The lower image showcases the grand Palace of the Sultan of Deli, a powerful Malay ruler closely tied to the plantation-based economic expansion of the region. The expansive structure, surrounded by manicured gardens and peaceful lawns, represents both political authority and cross-cultural architectural influences, including Malay and colonial design elements.
Kleingrothe’s photographic work is widely collected for its historical importance and for the high quality of his gravure printing. These scenes offer valuable documentation of urban and royal life in Sumatra over 120 years ago, at a decisive moment in the region’s development.
This print is ideal for collectors of Indonesian history, Southeast Asian photography, and colonial-era visual documentation. It would display beautifully in a travel-inspired interior, heritage-themed office, or academic environment.
Condition: Very good antique condition. Light age toning and scattered foxing in margins, image areas clean and strong. Wide original margins intact.
Framing tips: A classic dark wood frame or a black gallery profile combined with a warm-toned archival mat will enhance the historical atmosphere and visual depth of both images.
Technique: Photogravure
Maker: C.J. Kleingrothe, Medan, c.1900
