12 
good workmanship. The usual medals were offered, and some of the best 
artists in the country sent works for competition. In connection with 
this exhibition, the best thanks of the Committee are due to Mr. A. B. 
Hamilton, and to Mr. Councillor Winter for the medals they kindly gave 
to local photographers. Some excellent work was exhibited, but the 
Committee would have been glad to have had more exhibitors. 
The Autumn Exhibition now open, is equal to any of its predecessors, 
and seems likely to be popular with the public, for above three thousand 
visitors passed the turnstiles during the first fortnight. 
The four cases of Art objects lent by the Science and Art Depart- 
ment were renewed in May last, and the Committee desire to acknow- 
ledge the courtesy of the officials at South Kensington, and their anxiety 
to lend objects which are of practical use to the Art industries of the 
town and neighbourhood. Other objects of interest have been lent by 
various persons during the year, to whom the thanks of the Committee 
are cordially due. 
The fine collection of old Derby China belonging to the Gallery 
has been a greater attraction than ever during the past year, and more 
collectors brought specimens for comparison and identification than at 
any previous period. The debt of gratitude due to the generous 
donors of this collection is increasing, and the Committee are glad to 
know that their generosity is being so thoroughly appreciated. 
The Saturday Concerts organised by the Curator reached their 
eleventh season during last winter. They have done much to popularise 
the gallery, and the Committee desire again to place on record their 
thanks to the host of friends, both amateur and professional, who have 
gratuitously given their services. 
The warmest thanks of the Committee and the Council are due to 
Mr. Councillor Edgar Horne, who has this day presented to the Gallery 
a valuable Kirkman Concert Grand Pianoforte. 
The building is in good repair, and some alterations in the heat- 
ing apparatus, effected at slight cost, have made the entrance hall 
and Galleries much more comfortable during cold weather. 
The Committee have once more pleasure in testifying to the well 
directed efforts of the Curator for the benefit of the Gallery, and to 
the energy and tact with which he discharges his duties. 
On behalf of the Committee, 
WILLIAM BEMROSEH, 
Chairman. 
October 26th, 1896. 
