In 1988 Australia's largest museum, the Powerhouse, opened its doors to the public. Its history, however, dates back to 1879 and the Sydney International Exhibition, when what is now called the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences began its collection. Among the many attractions in the new museum are the displays of decorative arts and design collected over the past 100 years. This beautifully designed book publishes for the first time a major part of this collection. As well as showcasing the museum's collection with over 200 colour illustrations, this book provides an illuminating account of the historical and cultural context in which the collection has developed