155 
same subject, or rather one somewhat similar. In the en- 
graving another figure is added ; and there are other dif- 
ferences. In this case the original picture had probably 
been reproduced with additions, and the engraving taken 
from the later one. 
4th. A large picture in two parts, from a painting by 
Benjamin West. You will notice, as peculiar, the mode in 
which the two portions of the picture are intended to be 
joined together ; also that the two halves are not of the same 
tint, either in shade of colour or depth. 
I will now give you the result of my examination of the 
pictures and the fragments given to me by Mr. Smith for the 
purpose of analysis. The surface of the paper appears, first, 
to have been prepared with gum and sugar. On that is the 
image impressed, consisting of finely divided particles, 
apparently laid on either in the form of vapour or very fine 
powder. Over the picture is a coating of albumen. This 
has been applied, most likely, by floating the picture on the 
surface of a vessel containing albumen. The picture has 
then, probably, been taken up carefully and allowed to drain 
for a short time, and then laid flat to dry. Small air bub- 
bles, or particles of dust, on the surface would just produce 
the curious appearance of projections and shadows before- 
mentioned— the powdery surface being slightly carried away 
and deposited, just as we see it. Those who have made 
experiments in photography — such as in the old carbon pro- 
cess, &c. — will at once fully understand my remarks. The 
albumen, in drying, has run into the hollows of the paper, as 
we see in the specimens. It is easy now to see how the 
images could be transferred to canvass, or painted upon on 
the paper. 
How the images were formed I cannot even venture a 
suggestion. The process, if re-discovered, would be still 
valuable, even with our other and various modes of reproduc- 
tion. For effect and beauty the specimens now shown are 
