Description
The role of Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha (1819–1861) as cultural transferant between Britain and the German lands has long been undervalued. This study reassesses his contribution to British life through the lens of cultural transfer theory. Examining Albert’s education, collecting and working practices, it focuses on his pivotal role in the Great Exhibition of 1851. The book establishes Prince Albert as a major European cultural transferant, particularly evident in the South Kensington complex of museums known as Albertopolis.
Overview
Introduction
A. The Making of a Prince Consort: Prince Albert’s Bildung
The early years – The teenage years – Kavaliersreisen and Grand Tours
B. Prince Albert’s Collecting Practices
Early Influences on Prince Albert’s Collecting Practices – Prince Albert’s (and Ernst’s) Early Collections – Prince Albert’s (and Victoria’s) Collections in Britain
C. The Basis for the Great Exhibition of 1851
The (mixed) Reception of Prince Albert in Britain – The Royal Networker – Towards the Great Exhibition of 1851
D. The Conception and Design of the Great Exhibition of 1851
Precursors of the Great Exhibition of 1851 – The Concept of the Great Exhibition – Shaping the Great Exhibition – The ›Natural Feat of Engineering‹ and ist Interior Design – The Organisation of the Exhibition or ›The Great Job of 1851‹
E. The World Presents Itself: The Great Exhibition of 1851
The German States’ Contributions, including those of Coburg and Gotha – Albert and Victoria as Exhibitors at the Great Exhibition of 1851 – Hosting a World Event – London in 1851
F. Cultural Transfer and the Legacy of the Great Exhibtion of 1851
World Fairs – Albertopolis – The South Kensington Phenomenon
Epilogue
Apendix A – D
List of Illustrations, Bibliography, Index