BULLETIN 39, UNITED STATES NATIONAL MUSEUM. [18] 



If possible, the specimens that go directly to the Museum should be 

 sent fresh. Where this can not be done they may be sent in a well- 

 closed vessel in any antiseptic solution convenient (carbolic acid, 

 arsenite of soda, chloride of zinc, strong salt solution, alcohol). For- 

 malin must not be used, for it renders the maceration of bodies for 

 skeletons almost impossible. 



In all cases where the slightest difficulty might be encountered it is 

 best to communicate at once with the Division of Ph3^sical Anthro- 

 pology, National Museum, and all needed aid or information will be 

 given. 



PHOTOGRAPHS AND CASTS. 



In demonstrations and Museum exhibits, as well as in original 

 investigations, a very important part is played by good photographs 

 and casts. A complete collection in physical anthropolog}^ ought to 

 include a representation in excellent photographs and facial or whole 

 head casts of every important branch and group of humanity. As it 

 is, there is no institution that possesses photographs or casts of the 

 various racial divisions of even the whites alone. Nor could there 

 be made as yet in any institution with an anthropological section 

 an exhibit of an}^ one nation, illustrating physical tjq^es, or such 

 groups as that of the most beautiful individuals, the greatest athletes, 

 the foremost literary men, artists or inventors, in that nation. More 

 has really been done in this respect on primitive peoples than on 

 those more civilized; but there is everywhere an opportunity for 

 doing better. 



What is required, and of which nothing can quite take the place, i& 

 a systematic gathering of both photographs and casts. Such a desid- 

 eratum will undoubtedly some time be realized. In the meanwhile all 

 contribution of good photographs or casts, from whatever part of the 

 world they may be, will be welcome and useful. 



The most valuable photographs are those of nude, partl}^ nude, or 

 but simply dressed individuals, from glass negatives of at least 5 by 7 

 inches. If larger plates are used, well arranged groups of several 

 persons of the same sex are of particular interest. 



If an opportunity to make photographs or casts is limited, choose 

 only adults of nnddle age; otherwise extend at least the photography 

 to all. Very interesting series are afforded by whole families. 



If individuals are photographed, it is well to take the full face and 

 full profile; in groups onl}^ a full face is required. The best posture 

 is that which is most natural to that person; but the ej^es should 

 always be directed to observe some object straight in front and about 

 their level. The photographer should know the distance at which 

 he can obtain the best portraits with his instrument, and all indi- 

 viduals photographed should be placed at the same distance from his 

 camera. 



