Washing sand for diamonds on the banks of the Vaal River, South Africa, c1890

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Washing sand for diamonds on the banks of the Vaal River, South Africa, c1890

Washing sand for diamonds on the banks of the Vaal River, tributary of the Orange River in South Africa, c1890. An engraving from Robert Browns The Countries of the World, published by Cassell, (London & Paris, c1890)

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Media ID 14906360

© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images

Diamond Imperialism River Vaal Robert Brown Sand South Africa South African Vaal River Washing Print Collector2

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> Africa > South Africa > Related Images

> Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Related Images

EDITORS COMMENTS
. This engraving takes us back to the late 19th century in South Africa. The scene depicts a group of people diligently washing sand along the picturesque riverbanks of the Vaal River, a tributary of the mighty Orange River. Their purpose? To uncover precious diamonds hidden within. The image offers a glimpse into a time when colonialism and imperialism were shaping the African continent. Against this backdrop, we witness individuals from different backgrounds working together in pursuit of wealth and opportunity. Among them are local South Africans, their faces obscured by shadows but their presence undeniable. The landscape itself is both serene and rugged - an embodiment of Africa's natural beauty that has long captivated explorers and settlers alike. The monochrome palette adds depth to every detail captured by Robert Brown's skilled hand as he immortalized this moment in history. As we observe this print today, it serves as a reminder not only of our shared human desire for prosperity but also of the complex histories woven into every corner of our world. It invites us to reflect on how landscapes can bear witness to centuries-old stories while simultaneously inspiring new narratives yet to unfold.

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