In 1886 Birmingham photographer John Collier documented the Exhibition of Local Manufactures and Natural History.
The selection of exhibits was limited 'to the leading manufacturers in their respective branches, or to any firm producing a speciality, with the view of showing the great variety of trades, and the excellence of work produced.'
We were very disappointed to learn that we missed a mini-retrospective of the original exhibition last year. However, the accompanying booklet, created by Brighton-based Studio Makgill, is enough to whet the appetite.
