London International Exhibition of 1871, State Opening on May 1, Official Programme

48, [xvi]pp, in purple paper covers, in a (later?) cloth binding with gilt lettering and arms on front panel, blind rules and embossed decorations.  All edges gilt. 8vo.  Cloth boards are a little worn is area around the the base of spine showing now inert water damage, gently rubbed at corners and spine ends.  Some discolouration on endpapers else internally neat, clean, bright and tight.

The London International Exhibition of 1871 was the first of a series of annual international exhibitions in South Kensington. It attracted over 1 million people and was the only one to make a profit.  This is the official programme for the State Opening of the event, a ceremony led by the then Prince of Wales, later Edward VII, and Princess Helena.  It includes ceremonial, the order of procession, music, lists of commissioners, invitees, details of the Exhibition of Musical Art held at the Royal Albert Hall as part of the opening, and essay on the International Exhibition and various contemporary advertisements. A rare, and cared for, survival.