Displaying the Empire: A Search For Self Representation of The Ottoman Empire in The International Exhibitions of The Nineteenth Century

In this study, the motives of the Ottoman Empire, which cannot be classified under these binary categories, in participating the international exhibitions were discussed. In this regard, the main focus of the study is the transformation of the exhibitions towards the platforms, where the states displayed their cultural identities with the impact of the peace period, the material progress and colonialism, all of which surpassed their initial commercial agenda. The aim of the Ottoman Empire to participate in the exhibitions was emphasized as an attempt to display an accurate Ottoman representation in the international public by benefiting from the transformation of the exhibitions. The main argument is that the Ottoman mind realized that the international exhibitions were not only commercial centers but also arenas for self representation.