British Malaya in the 1930s

[Southeast Asia]. Eastwood, Kenneth. Collection of photographs.

€ 4,500.00

An exceptional trove of personal photographs showing British Malaya during the economic depression of the 1930s, including compelling images of the impoverished Chinese community. Prepared and compiled by Kenneth Eastwood (b. 1912), a structural engineer and draughtsman stationed at the Royal Air Force base at Seletar on the northeast coast of Singapore between 1937 and 1940. Not limited to Malaya and Singapore, showing snapshots from Johore, Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Seramban and Pulau Ubin, the collection also comprises images of Java (Jakarta, Bandung) and Bali (Kintamani, Sibetan, Denpasar, Sukawati, etc.). The material is particularly remarkable for documenting the local population, including rare photographs of members of the Orang Bukit tribe, as well as scenes of domestic life featuring local women and children, many of whom are of Chinese descent. The dire situation of many Chinese working-class immigrants who came to Malaya since the middle of the 19th century to satisfy the demands of the economic development as well as of the colonial expansion is depicted with a hint of naiveté, including a picture captioned: "The gay Chinese beggarmen [!] smiles at the camera".

Further, many photographs depict Buddhist and Hindu temples and sculptures, cultural events like the Thaipusam festival, street and harbour scenes, river views, mountain scenery, farmers, fishermen, and sailing vessels. In addition, a couple of photographs show Eastwood and his friends and colleagues at work at the RAF base, hiking or attending a wedding. Several images of Singapore landmarks such as St Andrews Cathedral, Connaught Bridge and Victoria Theatre as well as aircraft at Singapore airport complete the picture.

Albums slightly rubbed at extremities. A few photographs loose or loosened. A unique survival.