Protestant Missionary Collections at the 1867 Paris Exposition Universelle

This contribution uses the Missionary Pavillion at the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1867 as a shard through which to shed light on the 'missionary exhibitionary complex' as it developed following the later-eighteenth century evangelical revival in Britain. As well as outlining the locations from which collections were assembled, it attempts to explore the specifically Protestant dimensions of the displays, in particular the distinction drawn between three-dimensional objects and printed texts. While the display of both texts and objects might publicise the work and success of the missions, they were ultimately intended to reflect back on the greatness of God, ultimately realised through the power of inspired speech.