Temples of Luxury: Volume II: Department Stores

In the long nineteenth century, British institutions such as hotels, inns, arcades, bazaars, co-operatives, shops, and department stores were coded as 'luxurious' and were associated with leisure and modernity. This two-volume collection of primary sources examines the architectural innovation, interior decoration, and the experience of staff and period debates over the morality of consumption in these institutions.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In the long nineteenth century, a significant transformation occurred in the British landscape, characterized by the proliferation of institutions that were often coded as 'luxurious.' These establishments, including hotels, inns, arcades, bazaars, co-operatives, shops, and department stores, emerged as symbols of affluence and modernity. This period witnessed not only an increase in individual consumerism but also the institutionalization of opulent spaces, such as the newly constructed grand hotels, purportedly an American innovation, and department stores, inspired by the French grands magasins. These environments, which were once reserved for the upper classes, became accessible to a broader segment of society, fostering a sense of leisure and belonging.

Moreover, these luxurious institutions were not merely adorned with architectural innovation and interior decoration; they also reflected the changing social dynamics of the time. They became hubs of social interaction, where people from different backgrounds came together to exchange ideas, engage in commerce, and enjoy leisure activities. The experience of staff within these institutions was crucial, as they played a vital role in creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for their patrons.

However, the concept of luxury was not without its controversies. During this period, there were ongoing debates about the morality of consumption, particularly in light of the growing wealth and inequality in society. Some critics argued that the pursuit of luxury led to wasteful spending and exploitation, while others defended it as a symbol of success and achievement. These debates often reflected the broader social and political tensions of the time, with debates about the role of the state, the distribution of wealth, and the ethics of consumerism.

In order to shed light on this fascinating but often neglected aspect of the British nineteenth century, this edition brings together a collection of annotated primary texts and visual material. These sources provide a firsthand account of the experiences of individuals who worked in these institutions, as well as a glimpse into the social and cultural context in which they operated. By exploring the luxurious side of these institutions, including architectural innovation and interior decoration, we can gain a deeper understanding of the role that luxury played in shaping nineteenth-century British society.

Furthermore, by examining the other side of luxury, namely the experience of staff and the period debates over the morality of consumption, we can gain a more nuanced perspective on the complexities of this phenomenon. The staff of these institutions, who worked tirelessly to provide a high-quality service to their patrons, played a crucial role in shaping the luxurious experience. Their dedication, professionalism, and attention to detail contributed to the reputation and success of these establishments.

At the same time, the debates over the morality of consumption raised important questions about the role of consumerism in society. These debates challenged traditional notions of morality and ethics, asking whether the pursuit of luxury was necessarily good or bad for individuals and society as a whole. They also highlighted the need for greater social and economic equality, as the growing wealth and inequality in society could lead to social unrest and instability.

In conclusion, this edition seeks to explore a fascinating but hitherto often neglected side of the British nineteenth century by bringing together a collection of annotated primary texts and visual material documenting these 'temples of luxury as they were seen by their contemporaries.' Through the examination of these institutions, their experiences, and the debates over the morality of consumption, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of luxury in nineteenth-century British society.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367425883