Through the graphic art collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum and its National Art Library, Julius Bryant leads a visit to the Crystal Palace, revealing the original layout, visitor routes, star attractions, and core purpose of the first world’s fair. This book launch lecture, marking the 175th anniversary of the Great Exhibition, shares discoveries made through systematic analysis of the full range of visual evidence, from official catalogues and illustrated press to commemorative oil paintings.
Dr. Julius Bryant is keeper emeritus of the Victoria and Albert Museum and was formerly keeper of word and image, the V&A’s department for paintings, prints, drawings, the National Art Library, and the Archive of Art and Design.
