The Netherlands & Belgium · 20th century
€ 270
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good for age. Sheet shows minor scattered foxing, light toning, and soft handling marks in margins. Image areas clean, rich impression. Original plate marks visible.
Medan Wampoe River & Sultan of Langkat Palace – Kleingrothe c.1900
This historic original photogravure sheet presents two evocative early 20th-century views along the Wampoe River in East Sumatra, captured by the renowned photographer C.J. Kleingrothe in Medan. Kleingrothe’s images are among the most important visual records of colonial Sumatra, documenting both local culture and rapidly developing infrastructure during the Deli plantation era.
The left-hand image depicts the riverside view toward the Sultan’s Palace of Langkat, framed by palms and dense tropical vegetation. The Sultanate of Langkat was one of the most influential Malay states in North Sumatra, with close ties to Dutch authorities and the powerful tobacco plantations in the region. Kleingrothe’s composition emphasizes the river as both a strategic and cultural lifeline, leading the viewer’s eye across the calm water toward the royal complex.
The right-hand scene presents a richly detailed look at Malay river dwellings, where wooden houses and fishing boats line the densely vegetated shoreline. Everyday life unfolds quietly along the banks — a vivid glimpse into indigenous habitation and resourceful adaptation to the tropical environment.
Printed in Germany by J.B. Obernetter in Munich using the gravure technique, these finely inked plates retain excellent tonal range, crisp detail, and a soft photographic depth typical of Kleingrothe’s finest work. The sheet was originally issued in the rare promotional album “Sumatra’s O.K.”, produced for the Deli plantation companies.
A highly decorative and culturally insightful work — ideal for collectors of Indonesian history, colonial photography, and Southeast Asian visual heritage.
Condition: Very good for age. Sheet shows minor scattered foxing, light toning, and soft handling marks in margins. Image areas clean, rich impression. Original plate marks visible.
Framing Tips: A warm off-white or soft ivory mat complements the subtle sepia tones. A dark wood frame (teak, walnut) enhances the historic character and echoes the tropical subject matter.
Technique: Photogravure
Maker: C.J. Kleingrothe, Medan (printed by J.B. Obernetter, Munich), ca. 1900
