The Great Exhibition

Definition

The Great Exhibition was a world's fair held in 1851 at the Crystal Palace in London, showcasing the industrial achievements of various nations. It marked a pivotal moment in the historical development of art as a commodity, emphasizing the relationship between art and industry, as well as the increasing commodification of artistic works in a rapidly modernizing world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Great Exhibition was the first of its kind, drawing over six million visitors and becoming a symbol of Victorian pride and innovation.
2. It featured thousands of exhibits from various countries, highlighting advancements in technology, manufacturing, and decorative arts.
3. The event played a crucial role in promoting international trade and cooperation among nations during the era of globalization.
4. Artworks presented at the exhibition were often displayed alongside industrial products, reinforcing the notion that art could be commodified like any other manufactured item.
5. The success of the Great Exhibition inspired subsequent world's fairs, setting a precedent for future exhibitions to showcase national achievements and artistic endeavors.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Exhibition influence the perception of art in relation to industry during the 19th century?
  • The Great Exhibition influenced perceptions of art by demonstrating that artistic works could coexist with industrial products, leading to a growing view of art as a commodity. By displaying artworks alongside technological innovations, it emphasized that art was not just for aesthetic appreciation but could also be valued and sold like any other product. This shift marked a significant change in how society viewed artistic creation in the context of industrialization.
• Evaluate the impact of the Great Exhibition on international trade and cultural exchange among participating nations.
  • The Great Exhibition significantly impacted international trade by providing a platform for nations to showcase their industrial and artistic accomplishments. This encouraged cultural exchange and collaboration, as countries sought to learn from one another's innovations and practices. The exhibition fostered relationships between nations, promoting an atmosphere of competition and admiration that contributed to increased global interconnectedness during this period.
• Analyze how the themes presented at the Great Exhibition foreshadowed future trends in art commodification and global exhibitions.
  • The themes presented at the Great Exhibition foreshadowed future trends by illustrating how art could be integrated into commercial markets alongside industrial goods. This blending set a precedent for how subsequent exhibitions approached the display of art and design, showcasing them as products within a globalized marketplace. As nations continued to host similar events, the commodification of art became more pronounced, reflecting broader societal shifts toward consumerism and market-driven value systems that persist today.

Related terms

Crystal Palace: An enormous glass and iron structure built to house the Great Exhibition, symbolizing industrial innovation and architectural advancement.

Industrial Revolution:

A period of significant industrial growth that began in the late 18th century, leading to major changes in manufacturing processes and societal structures.

Commodification: The process of transforming goods, services, ideas, or even people into commodities that can be bought and sold in the market.