Gabon, Africa - The arrival of a European into the village

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library

Gabon, Africa - The arrival of a European into the village

Gabon, Africa (at this time one of the four territories of French Equatorial Africa) - The arrival of a European into the village. I suspect that the European in question here is actually also the photographer of this shot, which includes a local man saluting on the left and the visitors extensive baggage trunk (attached to a carry pole) in the centre. Date: circa 1907

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 7218131

© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10554917

Arrival Baggage Colonialism Gabon Pole Saluting Trunk Villagers

EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the moment of first contact between a European explorer and the residents of a Gabonese village in Africa, circa 1907. The European, who is likely the photographer himself, stands at the edge of the village, surrounded by his extensive baggage trunk, which is balanced precariously on a carry pole. The local man on the left, dressed in traditional attire, salutes the intruder with a respectful gesture, hinting at a complex web of cultural interactions that were just beginning to unfold. At the time, Gabon was one of the four territories of French Equatorial Africa, and the arrival of Europeans marked the beginning of a new era of colonialism. The villagers, who had lived in harmony with their environment for centuries, were now confronted with the disruptive influence of foreigners. The European's baggage, filled with unknown items, represented both curiosity and potential threat, as the villagers tried to make sense of this new presence. The huts in the background provide a glimpse into the daily life of the villagers, with their thatched roofs and simple design. The image captures a moment of transition, as the old ways of life were about to be disrupted by the inexorable march of colonialism. The photograph is a poignant reminder of the complex and often fraught relationships that developed between Europeans and Africans during this period of history.

MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.