Belawan Railway Station and Soengei Deli River, 1890s, Paper

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Belawan Railway Station & Soengei Deli River, Sumatra – Antique Photo, c.1910 This striking antique photogravure sheet presents two evocative … Read more Belawan Railway Station & Soengei Deli River, Sumatra – Antique Photo, c.1910 This striking antique photogravure sheet presents two evocative views of North Sumatra around the turn of the 20th century, capturing the growth of infrastructure and trade under the Dutch East Indies administration. These images were produced after original photographs by renowned Medan-based photographer C.J. Kleingrothe, whose work is widely considered the finest documentary photography of colonial-era Sumatra. The upper view depicts the Belawan railway station, a critical transport hub linking the port of Belawan to Medan and the rich plantation districts of East Sumatra. The composition highlights the long perspective of tracks, station buildings and harbor cranes beyond — a visual representation of progress, export commerce and the logistical efficiency necessary for the booming tobacco and rubber industries. Figures stand waiting on the platform while cargo wagons and a stationary locomotive reflect the bustling nature of this economic lifeline. The lower image shows the calm but industrious waterways of Laboean – Soengei Deli. Traditional boats navigate the river bordered by wooden riverside houses and lush palms, giving a strong sense of local life in a tropical trading settlement. This highly atmospheric scene balances natural beauty with the commercial purpose of river transport in the archipelago. The presence of a larger sailing vessel underscores the global maritime connections that shaped the region. Together, the pair forms a historical document of colonial infrastructure and maritime culture in Sumatra, combining artistic beauty with documentary precision. The photogravure process delivers rich tonal depth and fine detail throughout the imagery. These prints are increasingly valued by collectors of Asian history, early photography and Dutch East Indies visual heritage. Published in the early 1900s, the sheet remains a rare survival in excellent display-worthy condition. It would make a compelling framed piece for interiors ranging from classic library settings to modern tropical design. Condition Report: Very good condition for age. Sheet with light scattered foxing at outer margins, not affecting the printed images. Strong, clean impression with fine tonal range. Wide original margins intact. Framing Suggestions: A dark wood frame or teak tone complements the subject and history. Consider a warm off-white mat with a window cut to the plate mark to emphasize the composition and preserve the full sheet. Technique: Photogravure Maker: After C.J. Kleingrothe, Medan, circa 1900 See less