Expositie van Britse objecten tijdens de wereldtentoonstelling te Antwerpen 1894

Editor: This gelatin-silver print from 1894 by Th. Lantin captures an exposition of British objects in Antwerp. There’s a strong sense of history here, seeing how Britain presented itself to the world at this moment in time. What stands out to you in this photograph? Curator: It's the deliberate presentation, isn't it? The placement of these British goods within such ornamented vitrines, it's about constructing a specific image of national identity. What kind of story do these objects tell, arranged in this way? What are they trying to evoke through labels, lights and the objects themselves? Editor: I guess they're curating an image of industry, progress, and wealth... that showcase in the front, especially. The one that seems to house, like, decorative vases or porcelain, stands out the most. Do those specific goods hold significance in your view? Curator: Absolutely. Think of porcelain: its creation speaks of resources, technology, and trade networks—all cornerstones of imperial power. And the act of display transforms functional items into cultural artifacts that promote consumerism, an image of progress. In your eyes, is there a sense of who this image is *for*? Editor: Hmm, I think it's meant for both internal British consumption and for the world stage. Like, showing off to others while also reinforcing their own identity back home. Curator: Precisely. It’s a complex dance, then, isn’t it? The photographic image freezes that dance, that constructed moment of national pride and ambition. Consider the emotional impact on a viewer then, and now. Editor: I hadn’t thought about it that way before, as a snapshot of carefully crafted propaganda of both industry and nationhood. I will definitely have that at the back of my mind for a while. Curator: I’m glad you feel you’ve got something to reflect on. Hopefully the audience feels the same.