llelation to the Displaying of' Fioisoers. 535 



whitewashed room, into which the broad glare of daylight 

 is admitted by several windows along the sides of the room. 

 I have heard many remark how much more brilliant, strik- 

 ing, and fresh the plants in the latter appeared, although 

 they could not suppose they were in reality more so than 

 the plants in the other; but I have not heard any one 

 attempt to account for this difference. I think (if I may be 

 allowed such a privilege) that the very superior effect of 

 the plants in the latter place arose from their receiving the 

 light in a simple inartificial manner. I have never considered 

 the subject before with regard to flowers, but, from former 

 observations on the effect produced on different objects by a 

 descending light, I am of opinion that all kinds of forms 

 should receive the light as nearly on a level with themselves 

 as convenient- The most striking proof of the truth of this 

 notion may be educed from the fact, that, since our theatres 

 have been lighted by gas fiom the ceiling, the houses have a 

 much less brilliant appearance, and the shadows thrown on 

 the countenances of the audience detract very much from the 

 beauty and from the expression of the whole dress circles. 

 The same objection extends to sculpture; which fact, it is 

 probable, has been generally ascertained, as I have seldom 

 seen it exhibited in such a light. For the public display of 

 paintings, a subdued light from above is for many reasons, 

 perhaps, the best ; but for private collections, where no taste 

 or interest but the proprietor's has lo be consulted, a gallery 

 or saloon proportioned to the size and number of the pictures, 

 where the light is admitted horizontally, and veiled or not at 

 pleasure, has many advantages. The effects of light and 

 shade produced by the receding mists of morning, the gay 

 and sunny rays of noon, or the sobered hue of twilight, give 

 a variety and reality to the objects, which is seldom observed 

 in the usual mode of exhibition. Still, painting and other 

 works of art, in which will always be found more or less of 

 imperfection, may occasionally derive great advantages from 

 the mode of lighting usually adopted. Architecture, how- 

 ever perfect, never looks so grand and beautiful as in twilight 

 or moonlight. On the other hand, no light is too strong for 

 a fine landscape, or for flowers, the loveliest productions of 

 nature : they require no artificial means either to enhance 

 their beauties, or veil their imperfections. I do not know if 

 I have made myself clear; but 1 mean to imply, generally, 

 that the beauties of nature should be exhibited without any- 

 artificial means ; works of art according to their form, &c., 

 and the particular object the artist has in view. 



Anon. 



M M 4 



