Art Museum 



The past year has been a busy one at the Art Museum, the work in 

 connection with the children and the schools has been continued, an 

 especial effort being made to have those interested in design in any 

 way realize the wealth the Museum has to offer in that direction. 



The fact that Mr. Smith insists upon bringing in new material not- 

 withstanding the already over-crowded condition of the galleries has 

 necessitated the placing of two large cases in the Hall of Sculpture, in 

 which is exhibited the fine collection of Greek pottery. Two cases have 

 also been placed in the lower hall for want of a better location. In one 

 of these have been installed trays, paper weights, etc., carved from pieces 

 of marbles from the ruins of ancient Rome, which were collected by 

 Mr. Smith during his residence there in 1867 and 1868. Three large 

 cases have been added to the gallery formerly used as the Directors' 

 room. In these are shown Oriental embroideries not previously ex- 

 hibited. Two cases filled with antique glass from the Mediterranean 

 coast have been added to the long gallery on the second floor. 



Perhaps it is not out of place to mention the recent convention of the 

 American Association of Museums which was held here the 20th, 21st, 

 and 22d of May. This was the first time the association has ever held 

 their convention in so small a city as Springfield, and only three times 

 before — last year in New York City, the year before at Washington, 

 and in 1912 at New York City — has there been so large an attendance, 

 which was very gratifying to us. Special reference was made to the use 

 of museums in time of war, and an urgent appeal to thoughtful men 

 that all the power and wealth of the nation shall not be used for instru- 

 ments of destruction, but a certain proportion given to the civilizing 

 influence which is so much needed in this season of war. The stimulus 

 afforded by association with the foremost minds in museum work will 

 be a lasting benefit to us all. 



Respectfully submitted, 



ELEANOR A. WADE, Curator 



