The landmark 1851 International Exhibition - with its glittering Crystal Palace - was the envy of the world. Events like these became a matter of national pride. Four years later, the French held an International Exposition at Paris.
In 1857, the arts were represented in Manchester's Art Treasures Exhibition, which was also an unqualified success.
So public expectations ran high for the opening of 1862 'World's Fair' at South Kensington, London. But the project was dogged by difficulties from the beginning. And the exhibition building's design, by Captain Fowke, proved highly controversial...