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PHILIPPINES AND PARIS EXPOSITIONS
Paris has been the host of many expositions. In the 19th and early
20th centuries, Paris hosted six editions of the Exposition Universelle (World Exposition)12 and one Exposition Coloniale Internationale (International Colonial Exhibition).13 These expositions marked milestones in technology, culture, and aimed to improve understanding between nations. The Philippines participated in the 1867, 1878, and 1889 expositions in Paris under Spain, and under the United States, during the International Colonial Exhibition in 1931. In these expositions, the Philippines was represented by various provinces, universities, religious groups, companies and private individuals. Products exhibited included different types of wood, agricultural products, shell craft, cigars, liquor, fabrics, perfumes, oils, native hats and bags, and even plans for a country house near Manila. Philippine agricultural products were singled out for awards during these expositions.14 Paris was similarly the site of the Salon de Paris. Organized by the Académie des Beaux-Arts, the Salon de Paris showcased the works of selected artists from around the world.15 Often, it coincided with the holding of the World Exposition. The World Exposition and Salon de Paris of 1889 Philippine participation in the 1889 World Exposition and the Salon de Paris was a landmark one with leading Filipino intellectuals, artists, and businessmen of that period coming together and representing the Philippines. Some of the more notable Philippine exhibitors during this exposition were: the Cámara de Comercio de Manila (Chamber of Commerce of Manila), which exhibited agricultural products that 315
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