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 Home, 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 BEMROSE, 



Chairman. 

 October 26th, 1896. 



