Part IV

. of this book.

Having made our way to the Nave, a step brings us at once before the exquisite restoration of

THE POMPEIAN COURT.[23]

Seventeen hundred and seventy-five years ago, the cities of Herculaneum and Pompeii, beautifully situated on the shores of the Bay of Naples, were buried beneath the lava and ashes vomited forth by Vesuvius. The horrors of this calamity are recorded in the writings of Pliny, and of other Roman historians of the period. So sudden was the outbreak and general convulsion that, as we learn, many of the inhabitants of those cities were caught in their terrible doom before the thought of escape occurred to them. The dread event completed, nature resumed her former aspect. The mountain flames ceased, the intense blue sky again looked down upon the dancing waters, and there was nothing to tell of the general havoc, but a vast desolate tract covered with white ashes, under which man and his works lay entombed.

[23] See “Handbook to the Pompeian Court,” by George Scharf, jun.

For upwards of sixteen hundred years these cities remained buried. But about the middle of the last century, curiosity with respect to them was stirred, inquiry commenced, and excavations were attempted. As in the more recent case of Nineveh, but with still more satisfactory results, success at once crowned investigation. The material that had destroyed Herculaneum and Pompeii had also preserved them. That which had robbed them of life had also perpetuated their story in death. The cities were redelivered to man so far undecayed, that he obtained actual visible knowledge of the manner of life of one of the most remarkable people that ever governed the world. To the insight thus obtained, the visitor is indebted for the reproduction of the Pompeian house before which he now stands--a habitation of the time, complete in every respect. It is not asserted that the visitor beholds the actual ground-plan of any one specific house, but he sees the type of a Pompeian villa, made up of many fragments that have been found. The paintings and decorations are copies of originals found in the destroyed cities.

The doorway of this house stands fronting the Nave. Entering it, we pass through the narrow prothyrum or passage, on either side of which is a room devoted to the door-keeper and slaves, and on its pavement the representation in mosaic of a savage dog, and the words “_cave canem_”--beware of the dog--meet the eye. It is the usual notice found on the threshold of these Roman houses. Emerging from the passage, we are at once in the “_atrium_,” or outer court of the edifice. The eye is not attracted here, as in other restorations of the palace, by the architectural design alone; the attention is also secured and charmed by the decorations. The bright coloured walls, the light fanciful character of the ornaments, the variety of patterns, and the excellent method of colouring,--which at the lower part is dark, and graduates upwards, until it becomes white on the ceiling,--constitute some of the beautiful features that give individuality to Pompeian houses, and cause them to differ most essentially from every other style.

[Illustration: Ground Plan of Pompeian Court.]

This entire court, or “_atrium_,” was the part of the building common to all visitors. The opening above is the “_compluvium_,” and the marble basin beneath, the “_impluvium_,” which received the rain that fell from the roof. In the actual houses at Pompeii, the size of the “_impluvium_” corresponds, of course, with the dimensions of the opening above. Here the “_compluvium_” has been widened in order to admit more light into the court. The flooring consists of tesselated pavement, and near the two other doorways leading into the “_atrium_” is inscribed the well-known word “Salve”--“welcome”--announcing the profuse hospitality of the owner. Two out of the three entrances mentioned are formed here for convenience of egress and ingress, and are not copied from actual buildings, in which there are sometimes to be found, however, a _porta postica_, or back door.

As soon as we have entered the Court, we turn to the right, and proceed round it, stepping into the “_cubicula_,” or bed-chambers, to admire the figures that seem to be suspended in the intensely fine atmosphere, and--with our English experiences--to wonder how, whether by day or by night, comfort could be attained in such close dormitories. We reach the side entrance, next to which is an open recess corresponding with a second recess on the other side of the “_atrium_.” These recesses were called “_alæ_” or wings, and were used for the transaction of business with visitors. On the central panel of the first recess is painted a scene from the story of “Perseus and Andromeda,” and on the side panel are again exquisite figures, painted not in the centre of the panel, producing a stiff formality, but nearer to the top than to the bottom, so that the forms still seem to float before us. Continuing our way, we turn into the large apartment opposite the door at which we entered. This is the “_tablinum_,” and was used for the reception of the family archives, pictures, and objects of art. Across the “_tablinum_” a curtain was sometimes drawn, to separate the private dwelling-house from the more public “_atrium_,” although it is a remarkable fact that no remains of hooks or rings, or of anything else, has been discovered to convey an idea of the means by which such a curtain could be attached. In order to enter within the “_tablinum_” a special invitation was required.

[Illustration: THE POMPEIAN COURT.]

From this point, the “Peristyle” is also visible, with its columns coloured red some way up, a Xystus or flower-garden, and a back wall, upon which are curious specimens of perspective decoration, in which the Romans seem to have delighted. This court was always open to the sky in the middle. Passing through the “_tablinum_,” and turning to the right, we come to a small doorway which admits us into the “_triclinium_,” or winter dining-room. The Roman dining-room generally contained three couches, each large enough to hold three persons. In feeding, the Roman was accustomed to lie on his left side and to stretch out his hand towards the table in order to serve himself. Re-entering the “Peristyle,” we proceed on our way, still to the right, and pass a summer triclinium used in warm weather, on the walls of which fruits are painted, some hanging in golden clusters on a wreath of foliage, supported by Cupids. Next to this is the “_porta postica_,” or back door, and adjoining it a small recess, which served as kitchen. Crossing the “Peristyle,” near one end of which is the domestic altar, we turn to the left, and after passing a small chamber, the “_vestiarium_,” or dressing-room, reach the “_balneum_,” or bath-room--that chamber so essential to the luxurious Roman. Close to this is the _æcus_, or saloon, and beyond this again, and corresponding with the “_triclinium_,” is the “_thalamus_” or bed-chamber of the master of the house. Quitting this, we once more gain the “_atrium_” by means of narrow _fauces_, or passages, and return to the Nave, through the door of the house at which we originally entered. The visitor has seen the extremes of decorative art, when, after sating his eyes with the profuse and dazzling embellishment of the Alhambra, he has also dwelt upon the delicate work of colours gracing the walls of Pompeii. From the gallery above the visitor may see the form of the ancient tiled roof made of the peculiar tiles still occasionally used in Italy. This court was erected by Mr. Digby Wyatt. The paintings were executed under the superintendence of Sig. Giuseppe Abbate, of the Museum, at Naples. The mosaic floor was manufactured by Minton from drawings after antique Mosaic by Mr. Wyatt; and the bronze groups in the _tablinum_, and the Venus in the _lararium_, were electrotyped and presented by Messrs. Elkington and Co.

NATURAL HISTORY DEPARTMENT.

Upon quitting the Pompeian Court the visitor, still walking southwards, crosses the south transept and enters that division of the building which is devoted to geographical groupings of men, animals, and plants. The illustrations of the animal and vegetable kingdoms in the Crystal Palace have been arranged upon a specific principle and plan. Although the British Museum contains nearly all the examples of animals and birds known in the world, and Kew Gardens exhibit specimens of the majority of trees and plants known to botanists, still neither of these collections affords the visitor any accurate idea of the manner in which these numerous objects are scattered over the earth. Nor do they assist his conjectures as to the nature or the general aspect of their native countries. Here an attempt has been made to remove the confusion; and it is believed that the associations of those two branches of Natural Science, in groupings arranged in such a manner as the nature of the building will permit, coupled with illustrations of the human variety belonging to the same soil (a collection which has never before been attempted in any country), will prove both instructive and amusing, and afford a clearer conception than can be obtained elsewhere of the manner in which the varieties of man, animals, and plants, are distributed over the globe.

Zoology (from _Zoön_, an animal) is, strictly speaking, that science which investigates the whole animal kingdom, comprehending man as well as the inferior animals. Zoology, therefore, in a wide sense, includes Ethnology, or so much of that science as considers the different varieties or races of men in a physical point of view, instituting comparisons between them, and carefully pointing out the differences or affinities which characterise the physical structure of various branches of the great human family. In more confined use, the term zoology relates only to the consideration and study of the mammalia, or suckling animals; the requirements of scientific research having occasioned a new nomenclature in order to distinguish the different branches of the same study. Hence the natural history of birds is particularised as Ornithology, and that of fish as Ichthyology, whilst the investigation of those characters in man which serve to distinguish one race from another is, as previously remarked, called Ethnology (from the Greek _Ethnos_, “nation”). This last-named science is subdivided again into different branches, but, in a limited and inferior sense, and as illustrated by the various groups in the Palace, it may be described as that science which distinguishes the differences in skin, hair, bone, and stature that exist between the various races of men. This zoological branch of Ethnology relates to the physical history of man as opposed to his mental history, and, following up the course of his wanderings, endeavours by the above-mentioned physical peculiarities to ascend to the source from which the several migrating races have proceeded.

Within the Palace itself, we have been enabled to remark the works of man, and the gradual development of his ideas, especially in Art, leading to a variety of so-called “styles,” which answer in a measure to the varied _species_ of Divinely created life. We have now an opportunity of attentively considering the more marvellous and infinite creations of the Deity in the organisation and development of that greatest of all mysteries--life itself; and of obtaining a vivid idea of those peculiar varieties of mankind, that have hitherto not fallen under our personal observation. If the visitor should feel astonishment in the presence of some of the phases of human existence here presented to him, he may do well to bear in mind, that they are representations of human beings endowed with immortal souls; to whose capabilities we may not place a limit, and that it is not yet two thousand years since the forefathers of the present European family tattooed their skins, and lived in so savage a state, that late archæological researches induce us to suspect they were not wholly free from one of the worst charges that is laid to savage existence; viz. the practice of cannibalism.[24]

[24] Archæol. Journ., p. 207. Sept. 1853.

Entering upon the path immediately before him, the visitor will commence the examination of the groups arranged on the western side of the nave. Turning up the right-hand path, we find on the right a general illustration of Australia. The men here represented are copied from living natives of Cape York, North Australia, and strike us at once, by their half-starved, lanky, and ill-proportioned bodies, curiously tattooed; they may be looked upon as savages, hunters, and inhabitants of the forest; they possess that excessive projection of the jaw, which ethnologists make one of the distinguishing traits in the most degraded forms of man. These figures were modelled from some living natives who were brought to England in 1853, and who were kept for some weeks by the Company on purpose that these portraits should be accurately rendered.

Amongst the animals will be noticed that most characteristic form, the Kangaroo, of which there are several species, and the Opossum, or Fox Phalangister, with a young one in its pouch. There are likewise specimens of the Duck-billed Platypus, Cook’s Phalangister, a Flying Opossum, an Emu, and a large rat called Hydromys. Some fine cases of Australian birds stand in the Transept close by. Here the visitor will find numerous plants, with which he is acquainted in conservatories; the _Banksia_, the _Acacias_, and the different kinds of _Epacris_ and _Eriostemon_, are amongst the most conspicuous. He will see also specimens of three other kinds of _Araucaria_, the most elegant of which is the Norfolk Island Pine.

Nearer to the staircase, and adjoining the Australians, is a group of Papuans from the Louisiade Archipelago, remarkable by their curious frizzled hair; they are neither Malays nor Negroes, but a mixed race between these two, retaining the characteristics of the tribes from which they have sprung; hence they may be called Malay-Negroes. Behind them is a fine Cassowary, a curious bird, indigenous to the Indian Archipelago.

On the left-hand of the visitor, as he stands opposite the Australian figures, is arranged a group of Botocudos, inhabitants of that district in South America watered by the rivers Doce and Pardo. They have been regarded as the fiercest of American savages; they are yellow in colour, their hair is long and lank, their eyes are small, their cheek-bones prominent, the expression of their countenance excessively savage; and they give themselves a still wilder appearance by the insertion of pieces of hard wood in the under lip and in the ears, distending the flesh in a peculiar and strange manner. From this barbarous practice they derived their appellation of Botocudos, from the Portuguese. The operation of thus distending the lip is not, of course, carried out at once, but from infancy by the gradual increase in size of the piece of wood inserted. This may be noticed in the model of the child as compared with the adult natives. Missionary efforts, it is consolatory to think, have done something towards civilising these savages, who have been induced to become industrious, and to turn their attention to the cultivation of the soil. On the summit of the rockwork, over where three of the natives appear to be in council, are two fine specimens of the Black Jaguar and the Ocelot.

We now pass a case of birds belonging to North America, and at this point the illustrations of that country commence. In the centre of this case will be remarked a fine specimen of the Wild Turkey, from which our domestic breed is derived. On the left of this path is a group of North American Red Indians engaged in a war-dance, and surrounded by trees and shrubs indigenous to North America. The Indians of the valley of the Mississippi, and of the _drainage_ of the Great Lakes, supply us with our current ideas of the so-called Red Man, or the Indian of the New World. In stature they are above the middle height, and exhibit great muscular force, their powers of endurance being very great; in temper they are harsh, stoical, and unsociable, whilst in warfare they are savage and cruel. The general physiognomy of the Red Indians is the same from the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic. Between the Alleghanies and the Atlantic, the first-known country of these tribes, the variety is now nearly extinct. The most conspicuous plants are the American Rhododendrons, the Kalmias, the Andromedas, and the American Arbor Vitæ. Amongst the foliage we see the Black Bear, the Otter, the Beaver, the Grey Squirrel, and other animals indigenous to the country.

Passing now round the right-hand path, we find on our right the men, plants, and animals of Central America; amongst the latter, on the top of the rock-work, a fine male Puma grey with age. The Puma may be regarded as the American representative of the Lion of the old world, the distribution of both these animals throughout their respective hemispheres having originally been very general. Like most of the cat tribe, the Puma is a good climber, and usually chooses trees, rocks, and other elevated positions from which it can dart upon its prey. Before reaching this, the visitor will note a large specimen of _Agave Americana_, one of the most striking plants of Central America; he will also note that this is the land of the justly-admired Verbenas and Fuchsias, amongst which he will find a specimen of the large prehensile-tailed Porcupine. The men are representatives of the Indians of Mexico generally, rather than of any particular tribes.

On the left of the visitor are two groups of men; the two reclining figures are characteristic of Guiana, and beyond them is the Amazonian group. At the back, to the left of these two groups, is a large group of Caribs, some using blowpipes, others shooting fish with bows and arrows. These three are intended to serve as types of the northern varieties of South American Indians. And if we institute a comparison between the various races of North and South America, it will be found that the latter possess more delicate features, rounder forms, and are of smaller stature. Their habits and pursuits also differ. The Red Indian of North America gives himself up entirely to hunting, whilst the South American devotes his life to fishing, guiding his light canoe down the rapid-rolling rivers of his country, in search of the means of subsistence. In front of the Carib group are two Agoutis, and one unfortunate Marmoset Monkey in the clutches of a Skunk, while another is making his escape; also a small Fox, and a Tayra; and beyond the Amazon group is a little prehensile-tailed Porcupine.

The two cases of Birds which we now pass are especially brilliant, as they contain the Humming Birds and others of the splendid species of Tropical America. The specimens are not only remarkable for their magnificent plumage, but in many instances (as with the Toucan) for their peculiar conformation as fitted to their habits of subsistence. The long and slender bills of the Humming Birds, who probe the flowers in search of food, contrast with the apparent unwieldiness of the Toucan’s bill, adapted to tear from the branches the fruit upon which it feeds. Passing round, we notice a Jaguar about to devour a Brocket Deer. As the Leopard is found only in the Old World, so is the Jaguar peculiar to the New World, and each may be regarded as a representative of the other, on opposite sides of the Atlantic ocean; the Jaguar having greatly the advantage in size and muscular strength.

We now come to the Arctic illustrations, commencing with a case of Birds, many of which were collected by Captain Inglefield during one of the recent Arctic expeditions, and presented by him to the Crystal Palace. The specimens are arranged to represent some of the changes of plumage which, at various seasons of the year, are incident to the birds in these remote and extreme climates. The Snowy Owls, the Eider Duck, the Gannet, and various birds frequenting the sea-coast, are beautiful and prominent specimens in the collection.

It has been attempted in this illustration to present the visitor with some idea of the peculiar features of this region. It was necessary here, in the absence of all botanical specimens so attractive in the other departments, to attempt the representation of icebergs, and the snowy aspect of the country. The Ethnological group in the further recess is formed of two Samoiedes, or natives of Arctic Russia in their winter dresses of fur. The male native holds in his hand a pair of the very peculiar snow-shoes which are used by these people. The group nearest to the spectator consists of two males, a female, and child of the Lapland race, in their curious national dress. The scarlet costume of one of the male figures is, however, the summer dress, but is placed here for contrast with the other example, which is the kind of clothing adopted in the rigorous winter. On the right appears a Greenlander in his skin canoe, and armed with the implements of chase, by which he captures Whales, Seals, Birds, and other animals. The largest Polar or White Bear was killed by Captain Inglefield with a single pistol shot, when he was closely and dangerously attacked by the monster. The other animals consist chiefly of the Reindeer, Arctic Foxes, Esquimaux Dogs, Seals, &c. This illustration has been arranged and designed by Mr. A. D. Bartlett, under whose superintendence the Natural History Department is now placed.

Before leaving this side of the Palace to proceed in the examination of the Natural History Department on the other side of the Nave, we must not omit to particularly notice the interesting illustrations of aquatic natural history, which will be found in the various positions which are indicated. Most of these differ from the other objects in the department, inasmuch as they are living specimens; but they will all tend to give us some idea of how vast and how wonderful are the works of Nature, how various and how marvellously fitted each to its own function in the great universe. On the right-hand side of the path by which we entered the department from the Transept, is a case filled with West Indian sponges, arranged to represent, as far as may be, the aspect of the bottom of the sea in that region, and the form of growth of these curious marine productions. This rare collection of sponges is the property of J. S. Bowerbank, Esq., who has kindly lent them to the Crystal Palace Company, and arranged them himself.

We should now return to the staircase, near where the Botocudos and Australian illustrations are. Here two large tanks are fitted up as marine aquaria. The specimens are arranged in real sea-water. In the tank under the staircase, and nearest to the Botocudos, are placed specimens of the swimming fish most generally found on the coasts of Great Britain. It is not necessary here to particularise any of the various kinds, as a system has been adopted of affixing the specific names to the tank itself, for the readier and more effective identification of these interesting objects.

In the other tank, on the left-hand, those species of Crustaceæ which may be most properly designated _active Crustaceæ_ are exhibited. A similar plan for the identification of the specimens is adopted as with the other tanks. Amongst these interesting specimens, the curious movements of the Soldier Crab, or, as called by some, the Hermit Crab, are very noticeable. This peculiar animal is not himself gifted with a shell upon his body, although his legs and claws are covered with the usual protection. To remedy this want, his habit is to attack some univalve, most generally the common Whelk, and having devoured the inmate, to adopt the shell as his own, moving about with it from place to place with great apparent convenience. He is not, however, always left in undisturbed possession of his stolen tenement, for the _Actinea parasitica_ frequently attaches himself, with apparent purpose, to the shell, and thus, as it were, enslaves the inmate. The crab can, however, easily adapt himself to a new habitation, and may be frequently induced to the operation, if tempted by the introduction of a better shell. The tanks containing the Madrepores, Actineæ, and those species of Molluscous animals, which from their habits may be termed _inactive_, will be described in the proper positions on the other side of the Nave.

Crossing the Nave in front of the screen of Kings and Queens, we continue our examination of the various Natural History illustrations on the garden side of the Palace. Keeping then to the extreme right of this division, the first group we come to illustrates generally the Bushmen of South Africa. These have been variously designated by travellers as Bosjesmen and Earthmen, but are of one race. The group represents an entire family. This singular race of beings are persecuted and despised not only by Europeans but by the other tribes. They are migratory, and fix their abodes on unappropriated tracts of land, which frequently separate hostile tribes. The race is fast disappearing. The animals of this division (South Africa) are the Hippopotamus, the Bubaline Antelope, a large Crocodile, and on the rocks opposite to the Hippopotamus is the Cape Hyrax, or Rock Rabbit, a curious animal, much more nearly related to the Rhinoceros than to the Rabbit.

Further on we come to Eastern Africa, which is here represented by a group of Danakils, who inhabit the country between Abyssinia and the sea, leading a camel to water. The Danakils are a nomade or wandering tribe; they are of a chocolate-coloured complexion, and have long, coarse, wavy hair, which they often dress in a fantastic manner; they are of slender make, tall, and differ widely in appearance from the Negro. The Danakils are transitional between the Negro and the Arab, possess a Jewish physiognomy, and have acquired the Negro element from their intercourse with the neighbouring members of that race. The Negro form and physiognomy are much more strongly developed in the man on the right of the Dromedary, who belongs to the Msegurra tribe. In this district will also be found a fine natural historical group, representing a Leopard attacking a Duyker-bok.

On the right hand of the path in which we now are is a group of Zulu Kaffres. This fine people are far advanced before the rest of the South African races; they are in a measure civilised; some of them build houses and towns, and pay considerable attention to arts and manufactures. Thousands of them have lately entered the service of Europeans as farm-servants and labourers; in these capacities they are most honest and trustworthy. In general they are tall, strong, and well-proportioned; their skin is usually of a brown colour, but this varies in intensity; their hair is woolly; their foreheads high, and cheek-bones prominent. They are an active and warlike race, and of a predatory disposition. Having inspected this group, we should return and proceed down the path, then to our left. We shall pass, on our left, amongst other animals, three specimens of the Chimpanzee, the animal whose form most nearly resembles that of man (excepting the Gorilla). These are found on the western coast of Africa, though they may probably also exist in the far interior where no European as yet has penetrated. Though somewhat similar to the Ourang Outang of Sumatra in general form, the Chimpanzee is a smaller animal. It lives in woods, builds huts, or rather a protection from the sun and rain; uses clubs for attack as well as for defence; and in many ways exhibits an intelligence that presses with rather uncomfortable nearness upon the pride of the sole rational animal.

[Illustration: The Chimpanzees.]

Turning then to the left, the first group we come to is one which illustrates an episode in the wild life of the savage. Two native Mexicans appear to have come suddenly upon a Jaguar, who has struck down a small deer for his prey, and to have attacked him with the bow and arrow; the wounded and infuriated animal is about to spring from the rock upon his adversary, whose footing has slipped, when the other native advances boldly with a spear to receive the attack and to rescue his companion.

Beyond this is represented a battle between two Leopards, forcibly reminding us of a quarrel between two cats, which, in fact, it is. Any one who has seen one cat advancing towards another, must have observed that there is always a desire to receive the assault lying on the back, with the four legs upwards. The motive is to be in a position to have free use of the claws of all the legs; and in the group before us, though the smaller animal appears to have the advantage both by position and by the grip he has taken on the throat of the other, yet the laceration he is receiving underneath from the hind legs of the larger animal will soon oblige him to release his hold. Close by are two Gazelles, as well as some Mediterranean animals, such as the Barbary Ape, the Corsican Goat, and two specimens of the Mouflon Sheep. The vegetation includes Orange and Lemon trees, the Date Palm, the Oleander, the Sweet Bay tree, and the Laurustinus. If the visitor here turns round to his right, a little further on, he will find a beautiful case, containing some superb specimens of the Game birds which are found in the Himalayan districts.

In this path he will pass, on his left, some illustrations of the most eastern part of temperate Asia. Two Tibetans represent the general physiognomy of the inhabitants. The animals are all rare: amongst them is the Chiru, a curious sheep-like Antelope; the Siberian Marmot; the Yaks, or grunting oxen, which are used by the Tartars for riding or driving, as well as for food or clothing; the tail being very much in request in India for brushing away flies, no less than as an emblem of authority; of these Yaks there are two specimens here, the largest being the animal in its wild state, the smaller one as it is domesticated by the Tartars; and the Ounce, a species of Leopard peculiar to the Himalayan Mountains, an animal which three hundred years ago was comparatively well known, but whose skin has since become so rare that the very existence of the animal has been questioned. European travellers have lately visited its haunts in Central Asia, and satisfactorily proved that it still lives. In the glass case further on, are two specimens of the great horned sheep of Chinese Tartary. The Botany here is from various sources: China, Siberia, Japan, and Nepaul have each contributed a few plants, amongst the most conspicuous of which are the Camellias and the Oriental Arbor Vitæ, which is the Asiatic representative of the similar plant in the new world. Amongst this botanical group will be found also specimens of the black and green Tea-plants.

[Illustration: The Yak.]

Facing the visitor at this point under the staircase, and in corresponding positions to those described on the other side of the building, are two more large sea-water tanks. Those classes of Molluscous animals, which, we have termed, for the sake of distinction, _inactive_, are located here. Several of these are beautiful Actineæ, more commonly called _Sea Anemones_, from their similitude both in form and colour to flowers. There are numerous species of these animals, and an endless variety of beautiful colouring may be noticed on them. They are found in every sea, but those in warm latitudes usually surpass in beauty the denizens of more temperate or colder waters. Here also are some Madrepores, which, however, must be spoken of more as an assemblage of multitudes of minute animals than as one. The curious little long-shaped shell, from which the inmate emerges like a scarlet blossom, and into which he darts when disturbed, must also be noticed.[25]

[25] A very large fresh-water aquarium, on a comprehensive plan, is in course of preparation, and will shortly be added to this department.

Near the carriages is a Case containing a Sun Fish, presented by Edmund Calvert, Esq., and the rest of the specimens (which are all British) are, like those in the two Australian Cases which stand outside the glass doors leading to the staircase, the property of J. S. Bowerbank, Esq., by whom they have been personally arranged to represent the appearance of the sea-bottom. The Birds in the two Cases at the foot of the stairs belong to Africa.

With these we complete our rapid survey of the Natural History department of the Crystal Palace. It remains to mention that the Ethnological section was formed under the direction of Dr. Latham; that the Zoological Collection was formed by Mr. G. R. Waterhouse; that Mr. Gould formed the Ornithological Collection, and that Sir Joseph Paxton supplied the plants to illustrate the Botany. The whole of the natural history arrangements were effected under the general direction of Professor Edward Forbes, and the personal superintendence of Mr. Wm. Thomson.

Turning now to the left, a few paces bring us to the first Industrial Court on this side.

FOREIGN GLASS MANUFACTURES.

This Court has been allotted for the exhibition and sale of Bohemian and Bavarian glass manufactures. The magnificent specimens which are ranged around worthily exemplify the rich taste and fancy which have long been considered a characteristic of these productions, and form a most interesting comparison with the contents of the two succeeding Courts in this series, where are displayed the similar productions of the English manufactories, and, in the Ceramic Court, the richest specimens of all ages.

BRITISH PORCELAIN MANUFACTURES.

The contents of this Court somewhat differ in character from the works we have just quitted, inasmuch as the English Ceramic Art-manufactures of the highest class, and Porcelain from the best English potteries, will be found, as well as glass. The Parian statuettes, a branch of Art-manufacture of comparatively recent introduction, and in which the English excel, form a very beautiful and interesting feature.

CERAMIC COURT.

The next Court is appropriated to a most valuable collection of Ceramic productions, illustrating the art of Pottery, from the earliest to the latest time. This art has always been esteemed as curious and instructive, as it is an enduring record of a nation. From the earliest times, specimens have come down to us, and they doubtless speak with singular accuracy of the phase of civilisation in which they were fashioned, and of the manners which required them. Thus a survey of the Ceramic Court will, it is thought, bear with it more than the mere inspection of curious, beautiful, or splendid objects affords. The specimens are mostly arranged in the glass cases round the walls. In these will be found some curious Mexican examples, early Greek and Etruscan, and early stone pottery, as well as articles in terra cotta. Many very fine pieces of Lustrous and Italian-painted Majolica ware are arranged in the cases on the garden side of the Court. Of Sèvres china there are several splendid pieces of the renowned jewelled ware, as well as modern productions. The Dresden, Berlin, Viennese, Chinese, and Oriental manufactures are worthily illustrated, while amongst the productions of our own country may be pointed out the specimens of early Worcester and Chelsea ware, as well as the splendid works of the most modern manufacturers. Several of the magnificent pieces of continental manufacture have been graciously lent for exhibition by Her Majesty the Queen.

FANCY MANUFACTURES.

This is the last Industrial Court of the series on this side. It will be found to contain a most varied and rich collection of all those essentials of use and ornament for which both the Continent and this country are famous, comprising articles of bijouterie, vertù, papier maché, and an endless variety of things for presents or mementos; all the articles being for sale on the spot.

Quitting this Court, and turning to the right towards the garden, we reach the Photographic Department, entrusted to Messrs. Negretti and Zambra, the photographers to the Crystal Palace Company. Photographic portraits are also taken here in a room fitted for the purpose.

At the back of the series of Courts on this side, and along the whole of this part of the garden front, is arranged an exhibition of Carriages by most of the best makers, as well as harness, and many new inventions in connection with these things.

The visitor, having explored all the Fine Art Courts as well as the several Courts of Manufacture, may now give his exclusive attention to the _chefs-d’œuvre_ and valuable examples of ancient and modern sculpture, which he has not found in the Fine Art Courts; but which will arrest his eye from point to point, as he accompanies us in a walk through

THE NAVE AND TRANSEPTS.

Our starting-point shall be the screen of the kings and queens of England, at the south end of the building, containing casts of the regal statues at the new Houses of Parliament, Westminster, executed by Mr. John Thomas.

[Illustration: SCREEN OF THE KINGS AND QUEENS OF ENGLAND.]

The screen itself is from the design of Mr. M. D. Wyatt, and is characterised by much originality and appropriateness of treatment. The series of monarchs is placed in chronological order, commencing, on the return side to the left (as we face the screen), with the kings of the Saxon heptarchy; and beneath them the Saxon kings, the first on the left being Egbert, by whom the greater number of the petty kingdoms were first consolidated. The Norman series commences, on the principal front, with William I. and his queen, above whom are the statues of St. George and St. Andrew. Amongst the various rulers of the state may be noticed as of great excellence, in that style of sculpture which has been termed the “Romantic,” Henry II., Berengaria, Henry V., Henry VI., Richard III., Edward VI., Charles I., Queen Henrietta, and Cromwell; this last was rejected by the Committee of the Houses of Parliament, but is clearly necessary for completing the historical series, which is concluded on the return side, to the right, with the royal personages of the reigning Guelph family, and a lower row of Saxon kings. An equestrian statue of her Majesty, by Baron Marochetti, stands here in the centre.

Quitting the screen, we are first attracted on our road by the Crystal Fountain, which occupied so conspicuous a place in the Great Exhibition in Hyde Park. We will now, however, proceed on our tour, entering first the western end of

THE SOUTH TRANSEPT.

It is preferable, in order not to overlook any of the important objects which are stored in the several Transepts, to examine each Transept completely, as we enter it on our interesting tour, and after passing round both ends to resume our walk in the Nave, advancing up toward the north end of the Palace on the left-hand side, and returning down the right-hand or garden side. Turning then to the left, we proceed round this Transept, from left to right, noticing on our course the statues and other objects which are placed in the open space at each end. The first conspicuous one of these which we find is, a cast of the well-known equestrian statue of Charles I., from the original at Charing Cross. It was designed and executed, in 1633, by Hubert Le Sueur, a French sculptor, pupil of the celebrated John of Bologna, but was not at the time raised on its intended site. During the civil wars, the Parliament, wanting men more than statues, sold it to John Rivet, a brazier, living in Holborn; by whom it was kept concealed until the restoration of Charles II., when it returned again into the hands of the government, and was finally erected at Charing Cross in 1674. The pedestal is a work of the celebrated sculptor, Grinling Gibbons.

Beyond the statue of Charles I. in the central line, is placed that of James II. by Grinling Gibbons, cast from the original now in the court at the back of Whitehall. It is an excellent example of a portrait-statue treated in the classical style; and affords us a proof of the higher reach of Gibbons’s genius; whose well-earned reputation in the seventeenth century, we may remark, rested more especially on his works in ornamental carving, of which the exquisitely cut fruits, flowers, wreaths, and other ornaments on the façade of St. Paul’s, London, are examples.

Between these two Royal Statues is a Mosaic picture of the Ruins of Pæstum, executed in modern Roman Mosaic, every shade and tint being composed of separate pieces of vitreous material; and in front of the statue of James, a model of a Chinese Junk carved in ivory, which is lent to the Crystal Palace Company by Her Majesty.

A selection from the best productions of various English sculptors surrounds this portion of the Transept. At the angle is a colossal statue of Peel by Marochetti, and between this and the Screen of Kings and Queens in the nave is the statue of the great Earl of Chatham (449), forming a portion of his monument in Westminster Abbey. It was executed by J. Bacon, R.A., a contemporary sculptor, who was celebrated for the truth and vigour of his portraits. Bacon should also be mentioned with honour, as one of the first native artists who founded the English school of sculpture in the last half of the 18th century. Amongst the statues in the Transept itself, we would notice Macdonald’s excellent compositions of Ulysses recognised by his Dog (48), and Andromeda (47); the very gracefully designed figure of a Bather (36), by Lawlor; and a group of Boys Contending for a Prize, with some other statues by the same artist.

The statues on the north side of this end of the Transept are by Spence and Theed; amongst them will be remarked the Highland Mary (58), and the statue of Flora (59), both by Spence; Narcissus at the Fountain (60), and Psyche (61), by Theed.

At the junction of the Transept and the Nave is placed the colossal statue of Dr. Johnson, from his monument at St. Paul’s, the first that was erected in that Cathedral. This portrait-statue, as well as that of Chatham, is by Bacon; but composed, as will be remarked, on a diametrically opposite principle; the great writer being half clad in a classic toga, whilst the great statesman is brought more vividly to our minds by being represented in the costume of his period and his order.

We now cross over to that junction of the Transept and Nave, which is marked by a colossal statue of Lessing, the great German writer; a noble and dignified portrait-statue by Rietschel of Dresden.

In this portion of the Transept are several works of the English School of Sculpture, amongst which may be particularly remarked a statue of Shakspeare (407), by John Bell; the Maid of Saragossa (6b), a very picturesque and vigorous ideal figure of a heroine who has also inspired the pencil of Wilkie; the Dorothea (5a), so well known to the public by small copies in Parian marble; a graceful statue of Andromeda (7), and Jane Shore (6a). All these specimens of Bell’s talents are on the north side of this part of the Transept. Opposite to them, or close by, will be found the Mercury (55), a Dancing Girl (50), by Calder Marshall, R.A.; the First Whisper of Love (49), Zephyr and Aurora (52), and an excellent portrait-statue of Geoffrey Chaucer (53), the father of the school of English Poetry, also by Marshall. Nearer the Nave is an ideal statue of Shakspeare by Roubilliac, cast from the original, still preserved in the vestibule of the British Museum. The colossal statue at the angle is that of William Huskisson (462), the first statesman to pioneer the way to free trade. It is a noble work in the classic style, by Gibson. Along the centre of the Transept are placed the Eagle Slayer (6), by Bell, a work remarkable for its vigorous treatment; the well-known and graceful composition, also by Bell, of Una and the Lion; and the fine monument erected by the good citizens of Frankfort to the memory of the first printers, Gutenberg, Faust, and Schœffer. The central statue represents Gutenberg, who rests with an arm on the shoulder of each of his fellow-workmen. The original is by Baron Launitz of Frankfort, and is a creditable instance of the public spirit, which does not, after the lapse of centuries, forget the originators of The Press--that mighty power, which performs at this day so grand a part in the governance and for the benefit of the civilised world, and by means of which the reader studies this record. On the right of the Gutenberg monument is a stately equestrian statue of Francis I. by Clesinger of Paris. The countenance is strikingly like the authentic portraits of the king, and well exemplifies the character of the man. In a corresponding position on the other side is Marochetti’s statue of Richard Cœur de Lion, calling to mind a curious contrast in the chivalry of the two kings.

Having now regained the Nave, we proceed along in front of the Pompeian Court, where will be found various works mostly illustrative of modern German sculpture; amongst which we notice a group of Minerva protecting a Warrior (162), by Blaeser, of Berlin; also a charming little composition, by Brugger, of a Centaur instructing the young Achilles (164). The original model of a Nymph, with an Urn (167), by Dannecker, executed as a fountain at Stuttgard. An allegorical figure of Medicine (171), by Hahnel of Dresden. A Violin Player, by Steinhauser (201*). Two seated statues, in the Greek style, of Thucydides and Homer (176), by Mayer. A statue of a Magdalen (261), by Wagner. A very spirited group of a Hunter defending his family against a Panther (264), by Widnmann of Munich. A statue of Hector (166), by Dannecker. Next to this is a pretty statue of Diana (270), by G. G. Wolff, and near it Telephus suckled by a Hind (266), with several other beautiful examples. The statue of a Hunter (263) is a _chef-d’œuvre_ by Wittich. Opposite the Stationery Court are excellent life-size statues of stags (193*), by Professor Rauch, of Berlin, excellent examples of that difficult branch of the sculptor’s art--the study of animal nature; and near these, Debay’s exquisite group of the First Cradle (96), and a magnificent vase by Drake (169), with Thorwaldsen’s beautiful Venus (217) and Aurora (18), by John Gibson, R.A. The fine statues of Victory (184 to 188), by Professor Rauch, are characteristic examples of that great sculptor’s style, and of the successful variety of treatment in five designs for one and the same subject. And the statue of a Nymph holding a Basket of Fruits and Flowers (160), by Professor Drake, is a picturesque example of the “Romantic” school of sculpture. We now approach the Great Transept, before entering which we will turn to the left and explore the open Court which is formed at this point by the angle of the Transept with the Nave.

THE CANADIAN COURT.

This position has been appropriated for the display of a most interesting collection of the staple and manufacturing products of Canada. The colonial government have undertaken to form and maintain such a collection as shall completely represent the commercial resources of that important colony, and have voted a sum of money for its permanent maintenance. Such an exhibition presents invaluable information to the intending emigrant, and to all an interesting sign of the progress, polish, and prosperity of our brethren in the Atlantic colony.

A prominent object at the further end of this Court is the noble colossal head of Bavaria, by Ludwig Schwanthaler, of Munich, who enjoyed an European celebrity. The original bronze statue to which it belongs, erected outside the city of Munich, is fifty feet in height, the pedestal on which it stands being thirty feet high. For ten years did the great artist, weak and broken in health, still devote himself with a true artist’s love to the progress of his task: but he was not destined to witness its perfect completion; and when the statue of the Genius of Bavaria was cast in bronze, its author had passed from amongst us. The statue was first publicly exhibited in 1850.

Corresponding in position on the side next the Nave, is another example of those embodiments of towns and nations, which are so frequently to be found on the Continent. The present colossal statue allegorises Franconia, a province of Germany; it is characterised by much nobility of conception, and worthily sustains the reputation of the modern German sculptors. The original, by Professor Halbig, is erected at Kilheim, in Bavaria.

The south wall of the Court, and the passage from it through which we pass to the front of the Reading Room, will be found to be decorated by some beautiful bas-reliefs, amongst which may be particularised, Westmacott’s Paolo and Francesca (72); Lough’s Apotheosis of Shakspeare; some very interesting bas-reliefs by Rauch, from the tomb of Marshal Bulow; they will be found on the base of the colossal head of Bavaria; and the Triumph of Alexander (226), executed by Thorwaldsen to decorate the Pope’s palace for the reception of Napoleon I. in 1812,--one of the most celebrated works of the great sculptor. Chantrey’s beautiful group of Sleeping Children stands in the passage, and claims special attention.

THE LIBRARY READING ROOM.

Within the quadrangular area between the Canadian Court and the Central Transept, is to be found the Reading Room of the Library, which contains works of reference for those studies and Fine Arts which are exemplified in the Crystal Palace, as well as works of high class and general literature. The books are obtained for use in the Reading Room, by means of a small slip to be filled up from the catalogue. Round the room fit space is allotted to publishers, on which are exhibited the title-pages and announcements of new books, the new volumes themselves being exhibited during the season for immediate reference in an open book-case in the room. The publishers’ catalogues lie upon the table. The operation of the plan also extends to Continental literature, and the announcements of new books by Foreign publishers, as well as their catalogues, with the books themselves, will be noticed as an interesting feature not to be found elsewhere. A valuable Library has been already formed by the purchases of the Company, the free gifts of individuals, and by the addition of the new works which, having been exhibited by the publishers in the Room during the season, are then added to the catalogue. Amongst several very splendid works, the magnificent gifts of both Continental and British publishers, which enrich the Library, one deserves special notice on account of its very great rarity and value, as well as of its beauty. This is a copy of “Das Neue Testament” which was printed in 1851 for His Majesty the King of Prussia. As a specimen of Gothic typography the work is perhaps without a peer, while as a work of art, and a record of what can be achieved by the printing press in these days, it is to be highly valued. Five exquisite designs from the rich and original pencil of Kaulbach illustrate the volume; they represent the Deity, and the four Evangelists, severally, being single allegorical figures. There is also one illustration to the Revelations, by Peter Cornelius. These are printed from wood blocks. Twenty-five copies only of the book were printed when the type was broken up. Of these, five exist in England. One in the possession of Her Majesty the Queen, to whom the work is dedicated, one in the Bodleian Library at Oxford, one in the Syndicate Library at Cambridge, one presented to the Bishop of London, by Prince Frederick William, on the occasion of the recent Royal Marriage, and the present copy. This magnificent volume is the production of Herr Rudolf Decker of Berlin, Printer to the King of Prussia, by whom it was presented to the Company’s Library. In that portion of the room devoted to news, more than 100 _newspapers_ can be found, upwards of fifty of which are London papers; the British country press is very completely represented, constituting a feature of the Room, and several leading Foreign Journals are supplied; there are 18 Magazines, and 7 Reviews (as well Foreign as English), besides Periodicals and Pamphlets, Directories, Gazetteers, Maps, &c. &c. The very latest news, by special telegraph, is exhibited immediately on its receipt, and a regular Daily Telegram is received from Paris, with the state of the French Funds, and Money Market. A Register for Appointments and Messages is kept, and a glass case in which unclaimed letters, and letters for visitors, are exhibited. There is a postage-box upon the reading-table, and one outside, from which letters are collected several times in the course of the day; and paper, envelopes, and postage-stamps can always be obtained from the attendants at a moderate charge.

THE GREAT CENTRAL TRANSEPT.

Passing along in front of the Reading Room, we return to the Nave, and enter the Transept, the arch of which rises nearly 175 feet high in a light and graceful span. From the first terrace, however, to the summit of the Transept is 197 feet 10 inches. There are five galleries here, one above the other, the topmost of which runs entirely round the Transept, and the third of which extends round the whole length of the building on each side. In the second of these galleries, on the garden side, is the Industrial Museum and Technological Collection, of which we shall treat presently.

Not far from the angle of the Transept and Nave, towards the Stationery Court, stands a cast from the colossal statue of Rubens, by Geefs, of Brussels, erected in the cathedral square at Antwerp, of which city Rubens was a native: the original is in bronze, and a fine example of the modern Romantic school of sculpture. Opposite the statue of Rubens, on the other side of the Nave, is placed a cast of the fine bronze statue, by Dantan, which has been erected at Dieppe, in honour of the great French Admiral Duquesne. It is remarkable for its noble expression, and the spirited romance of its treatment. The celebrated Farnese Hercules and the Farnese Flora, both colossal antique statues from the Museum at Naples, occupy the corresponding positions across the Transept. The Hercules is a fine and artistic example, characterised by a massive and somewhat exaggerated muscular development, not, however, altogether inappropriate to the hero of physical force. The whole of this the western end of the Great Transept is occupied by the great orchestra, capable of accommodating 4,000 performers, which has been erected for the Great Handel Festival. In the centre of the orchestra is the great organ which has been built by Messrs. Gray and Davison expressly for the position.[26] The eastern end of the Transept is occupied by a handsome orchestra for musical and choral performances. On the northern side of this end of the Great Transept are ranged some choice statues of the modern schools; the graceful Amalthæa by Julien (113); Psyche (103*); Veritas (150), a veiled figure by Monti; and Endymion (129), the Graces (125), and Paris (129), by the late famous sculptor Canova.

[26] The organ contains 66 stops, viz., 20 on the great organ, 12 on the choir, 5 on the solo, 17 on the swell, and 12 on the pedals. It has four separate rows of keys, with couplers, combination pedals, and complete pedal board. The instrument contains 4568 sounding-pipes.

We must now cross over the Nave and enter the open court, which is close to the colossal Farnese Hercules, and which corresponds in position to the Canadian Court, which we examined before entering the Transept. This Court is filled with specimens of antique sculpture of the Greek and Roman schools. Among these we would draw attention to the colossal Velletri Pallas (351), so called from having been discovered at Velletri, near Rome, and now preserved in the Louvre, at Paris; the Dying Gladiator (309); a Boy with a Dolphin; a colossal head of Pallas (328). A Boy extracting a Thorn from his Foot, from the Capitoline Museum at Rome; and the fine head of Antoninus Pius (381).

A collection of Greek ideal and portrait-busts will also be noticed in this Court; amongst which the colossal heads of Vespasian (332), Trajan (354), Pertinax (379), Lucius Verus (361), and Titus (333), are

## particularly deserving of notice. The visitor should not quit this

compartment without noticing the collection of antique vases which it contains, amongst which the Medicean Vase (343) is a peculiarly elegant example of antique art. The elegant tripod (211), and the antique fountain (357), are also worthy of attention. Here also we find the celebrated group known as the Toro Farnese, or Farnese Bull. The original of this beautiful group, which is now preserved in the Museum at Naples, was discovered in the Baths of Caracalla at Rome, and derives its name from having been placed in the Farnese Palace in that city. The subject is the revenge of Queen Antiope and her two sons, Zethus and Amphion, on Dirce, for seducing the affections of her husband, Syeres, King of Thebes. The sons, enraged at the insult offered to their mother, are represented as about to revenge themselves by tying the unfortunate Dirce to the horns of a bull, when their mother, moved with womanly pity, intercedes for her rival, and induces them to forego the intended punishment. According to Pliny, the Toro Farnese was the work of the Rhodian artists, Apollonius and Tauriseus.

Conspicuous also in this compartment, from its high position and great beauty, is the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates. This beautiful example of ancient Greek architecture is usually styled the Lantern of Demosthenes, on account of a tradition which ascribes its erection to that celebrated orator. No weight, however, can be attached to this supposition, although it may be, and in all probability is, due to the time of Demosthenes.

An inscription on the architrave informs us that this monument was erected by Lysicrates of Kikyna, at his own expense, in order to commemorate a musical triumph obtained by various members of his tribe or clan, the Akamantis. The ancient Greeks were in the habit of holding a species of musical tournament, in which the most celebrated masters of the art vied with each other; in this particular case, the palm was awarded to Theon, the flute-player, and the chorus of boys led by Lysiades; the magistrate for the year being Evanectus. It was to celebrate this triumph that the monument was erected. On the monument was sculptured the story of Bacchus transforming the Tyrrhenian pirates into dolphins, which was the subject of the music. A tripod was the usual prize granted in these contests, and the victor either placed it in one of the temples, or, as in the present instance, consecrated a monument specially for its reception. It was placed on the summit.

Retracing our steps, we once more regain the Nave, and as we advance, still keeping on the left side, past the front of the Egyptian Court, we remark several antique statues, including the Antinous as Mercury, from the Capitol at Rome (316), the Antinous as a Good Genius (314), and the Adonis, from Capua (213).

From this point, extending throughout the façade of the Greek Court, are ranged excellent examples of Greek sculpture, which the visitor may compare with the subsequent works of the Roman sculptors, or of Greeks settled at Rome, placed before the walls of the Roman Court. Amongst the Greek statues we select the group of Silenus and a youthful Bacchus (306), excellently treated and full of life; seated statues of Demosthenes the Philosopher (308), and of Posidonius (307), on each side of the first entrance to the Court; the Borghese Silenus (306); a Bacchus and Faun (305); the fine group of the Wrestlers, from Florence (304), the well-known Drunken Faun (295), from the Museum at Naples; and the Apollo Sauroctonos (298), from the Vatican. Nor must we omit the excellent seated statues (290, 291). On either side of the principal entrance to the Greek Court will be found the beautiful Ceres (130), a Vestal (142), the Amazon (302), and Polymnia (297).

In front of the Roman Court will be first noticed Meleager and his Dog (289); the celebrated Antinous (288); the fine Mercury, from the Vatican (287), and the same subject (288), from Naples. Before the first entrance to the Court are placed the seated statues of Trajan (286), and Agrippina (281).

The Mercury disguised as a Shepherd (285), and the Adonis (282), are characteristic specimens of the ordinary Roman style.

Passing the façade of the Alhambra Court, we arrive at the Fountains, which at this end of the Nave correspond to those of the south end in position, and generally with respect to the aquatic plants which live in the water of the long basin. The two fountains here are designed and executed by Monti the sculptor. The figures of Syrens, supporting the large shells, typify by their colour four races of men: the Caucasian, white; the Nubian, black; the North American Indian, red; and the Australian, olive. The smaller figures above these bear fruit indigenous to various soils. The design of the Fountains is most appropriate, and the entire composition very artistic. The bronze colour of these statues, and of many others in the building, is produced by means of the electrotype process, with signal success. In the water which surrounds this fountain many interesting plants will be found, in addition to the lilies and other varieties which adorn the basin of the Crystal Fountain at the south end of the Nave. The Papyrus plant will be recognised by its tall green stems topped with fibrous leaves. The manuscripts of the Egyptians and many ancient nations were inscribed upon sheets made from the stalks of this plant. Many of the Egyptian architectural ornaments are derived from the form of the Papyrus, which grows in large quantities along the banks of the Nile. Rice, sugar-canes, and other interesting plants, grow along the margin of the water; the most curious of which, as indeed it is one of the rarest in the whole collection, is the Lattice Plant. This specimen was but lately brought from Madagascar by the Rev. Mr. Ellis. The remarkable form of the plant, from which it is named, will ensure its easy recognition. The gold fish, of which there are many thousands in the fountain basins of the Nave, have all been bred there from a few fish which have now grown to a great size, and may often be noticed steadily sailing amongst their multitudinous progeny. The temperature of the water, which is heated by water pipes beneath the surface, is peculiarly favourable to the growth of these fish.

THE NORTH TRANSEPT, AND TROPICAL END OF THE BUILDING.

It has been found that the valuable collection of Palms and other specimens of Eastern vegetation, which have been collected in this Transept and beyond, could only be kept healthy by isolating the department devoted to them, and raising its temperature to a degree which would not be pleasant in all parts of the building, or favourable to the equable growth and seasonable cultivation of the other various botanical specimens. During the greater part of the season, a curtain divides this portion of the Palace from the more temperate regions. The temperature suits so well the plants that some, which on their arrival appeared not to grow well, have become quite acclimated, wearing a rich and luxuriant growth of verdure.

Having entered the North Transept, we find the whole of the western end occupied by the colossal Egyptian Figures from Aboo Simbel. We shall view these to the best advantage from the further end of the Transept, in front of the Mammoth Tree; we will, therefore, first make the circuit of the fountain, examining the surrounding objects, and inspect them from that point, and thence commence our return journey down the Nave.

The two semicircular extensions at this the upper end of the fountain basin have been separated from the main body of the water by a perforated partition, and contain some curious and interesting animals. In that to the right, or immediately in front of the Assyrian Court, sports one of the most remarkable of the animal creation--the _Lepidosiren_. It is remarkable as being an animal organised with both _lungs_ and _gills_, which are generally assumed to be distinctive organizations in the reptile and the fish; but this, it will be seen, like most of such wonders in natural history, is a conformation of the animal to its habits of subsistence, place of residence, and the exigencies of its life. It is found in the river Gambia, in Western Africa. During a great portion of the year this river is dried up, and the mud in its bed is baked under an ardent tropical sun till it is of immense hardness, and shines when cut with a knife. When the river subsides, and parches up, the Lepidosiren burrows into the mud, where it remains during the dry period, till when the rains come, and the river swells, it issues from the softened mud and sports in the water again. It is considered by the most able naturalists to belong to the reptilia rather than the fish. The exact nature of its food is not accurately known, but it is a voracious feeder on animal substances; this specimen regales himself upon raw beef, frogs, and snails, with the occasional delicacy of a gold fish. He is himself eaten as a delicacy by people in Africa.

In the corresponding compartment on the other side of the basin are two species of fresh-water tortoises, _Emys Caspia_ and _Emys Gambiensis_, one an European and one an African species, which may be identified by its larger size and lighter colour. The _Emys Caspia_ is found commonly in the rivers of most of the warmer countries in Europe. When, after the Crimean war, the troops garrisoning the Ionian Islands returned to England, one of the officers brought with him two eggs of this variety; for safety he put them into his pistol-case. On his arrival in England the eggs were found to be hatched, and the two small animals were presented to the Crystal Palace Company, and placed in this basin. One has since died, after living some months; the other is still here.

The Visitor should not omit to inspect the Aviaries, of which there are several, in this end of the building. These contain Weaver Birds, Grenadiers, Grosbeaks, Mocking Birds, and Paroquets, most of them inhabitants of warm climates. There are also some Nightingales, whose rich song is frequently heard, even when the people crowd round them. The Weaver Birds, in the spring, may be seen constructing their curiously woven nests of grass, which hang from the branches like so many stockings; others of the feathered tribe build their habitations fearlessly in the presence of the visitor, with all the art of the basket-maker; here, indeed, bird-architecture of the most unique kind may be studied by the naturalist with delight and advantage. The Australian Paroquets have this spring again reared their young in these Aviaries with great success. It has been generally supposed that it was not possible to induce these birds to rear their young in this climate; but in 1856, the experiment was most successfully carried out in this Aviary. It has been repeated here since, each year; and in the present spring (1859), there are two healthy young birds which have been hatched in one nest, and there is promise of others. These observations more especially apply to the large species of Ground-paroquet (Platycercus hermalonotus), the smaller Shell-paroquet (Melopsittacus undulatus) having repeatedly bred in this country.

Besides the birds mentioned, there are several of the British varieties, as well as some others of greater rarity or interest which may be specially mentioned. There are several Canaries which should be noticed, as they have been trapped in the Islands and forwarded direct, in their wild state. These must not, however, be confounded with those of the tame varieties in the same Aviary; they may be distinguished readily not only by the general carriage of the bird, but by their green plumage. The collection of Sparrows is also interesting: there are the common house and tree Sparrows of England (this last, however, is not to be confounded with the Hedge-sparrow), the Rice-sparrow of Java, and the Diamond-sparrow of Australia. The Diamond and Java Sparrows have successfully constructed nests; which is an additional evidence of how suitable the Tropical end of the Crystal Palace is for the Tropical birds. Here also are two or three specimens of the Californian Quail (Ortyx Californicus). These birds were brought from the Zoological Gardens at Antwerp. They breed freely, and are well adapted to thrive in a wild state in this climate, rearing from fifteen to twenty young ones in a brood; they are a great table delicacy, and it is probable at no distant period may enrich the list of British Game birds.

In a glass case, on the right hand as we approach the Aviaries, are some beautiful and interesting Lizards (Lacerta agilis). These perfectly harmless little reptiles are found in all the warm parts of Europe, frequenting dry, stony places, and old ruined buildings. Their food is flies, beetles, moths, and other like insects. The present specimens are from Guernsey, in which island they greatly abound.

Near to these, in the centre of the Transept, are some of the most curious of the reptiles, and which are perhaps better known by repute than even the most common species daily under our feet. These are the Chameleons. The changes of colour in this animal, so often spoken of, are not generally so rapid as is supposed, nor do they possess so great distinctions as are popularly ascribed to them. In all their habits they are so slow as to be generally almost immovable, save in respect of their restless eyes, and the tongue, which is very long and adapted peculiarly to its purpose, which is to secure their food; they can dart it with almost invisible rapidity upon a passing fly or insect, which is immediately thus drawn into the mouth. They appear most generally to assimilate their colour to the objects on which they rest, or which surround them. This may be a means of protection to them, but it is most probably only a method of concealment for the more effectual capture of their prey. It, however, answers the double purpose.

If we now proceed by the extreme end of the building toward the eastern end of the North Transept, we shall find both on our right and left hand a complete set of casts from the Ægina Marbles.

These most interesting monuments of ancient Greek art are now in the Glyptothek at Munich.

They were discovered in the Island of Ægina, and are supposed to have ornamented the tympana of the east and west fronts of the temple of Minerva in that island. The group, representing the Contest over the Body of Patroclus, belonged to the western, and the five figures descriptive of the Battle of Hercules and Telamon against the Trojan king Laomedon, were in the eastern tympanum. They are most remarkable examples of Greek sculpture during its second period, or from the close of the 6th to the middle of the 5th century B.C.

The conception, the anatomy, and beauty of form found in these statues denote a highly cultivated artistic taste and power, to which the peculiar faces, the invariable smile on the mouth, and a certain stiff angularity of treatment, form a marked contrast. We observe in them that turning-point in the history of Greek sculpture, when the conventionalities of an earlier system were receding before that love of nature and extraordinary perception of the Beautiful, which subsequently rendered the Greeks so pre-eminent in art.

The originals, which had, as may be supposed, suffered considerably from the effects of time, were restored by Thorwaldsen, the Dane, whose conscientious spirit and thorough appreciation of the antique give assurance of the correctness of the interesting examples now before us.

THE LECTURE ROOM.

Through the doorway which is in the corner to the right of the first set of Ægina marbles, is fitted up a spacious Lecture Room, with every accommodation for Dissolving Views and other illustrations. It comprises the whole of the “Queen’s Corridor,” so called from the private apartments of Her Majesty, which are to the left.

Continuing onwards, we obtain a fine view of the North Transept, with its noble avenue of sphinxes and palm-trees, terminating with

THE COLOSSAL EGYPTIAN FIGURES,

which are from the temple of Rameses the Great at Aboo Simbel, in Nubia. These immense seated statues towering to the roof of the Transept afford us some adequate idea of the stupendous magnitude and passive grandeur which characterise the monuments of ancient Egyptian art. Their height is sixty-five feet.

It may be remembered that in the Egyptian Court we directed the attention of the visitor to a model of the temple at Aboo Simbel; on the façade of which were four statues of Rameses the Great. Two of these statues are here reproduced on the scale of the originals, the smaller figures around them representing the mother, wife, and daughter of the king.

The temple of Aboo Simbel, in Nubia, is excavated from the rock, and was first discovered by Burckhardt, the traveller; the accumulated sand of centuries, which then covered it, was removed by order of Belzoni, the first, with Captains Irby and Mangles, to pass its long-closed entrance. The interior was covered with paintings and hieroglyphics relating to Rameses the Great, and the date of the temple has been consequently placed at about 1560 B.C.

The sphinxes which formed the avenue are cast from one preserved in the Louvre, the writing engraved on which presents us with a curious but not uncommon instance of a custom that prevailed amongst the Egyptian monarchs, and to which we referred when describing the Egyptian Court. On one side of the shoulder the name “Pthalomen Miotph” is written in hieroglyphics, and on the other shoulder is the name of Shishak I. The last-named lived about 1000 B.C., and the first nearly two hundred years before him. Other instances occur where the name of the original founder has been erased altogether, in order to make way for the name of some comparatively modern king.

We are now standing at the foot of what represents one of the largest-known trees in the world. This tree grew, one of a group of such monsters, on the Sierra Nevada in California. When flourishing, it rose to the astounding height of nearly 400 feet. Several in the same district which are now standing are 300 feet in height. The bark of this tree has been arranged and fitted up as it grew, to give us some idea of its gigantic proportions by the view of a part. The wood is a

## particularly light cedar; and has been considered as of the same kind as

that cedar of Lebanon employed by Solomon in the building of the Jewish temple. Dr. Lindley has named it the _Wellingtonia gigantea_, and has fixed its age at 4000 years. This then must have been a great tree before the ancient rock tombs of Aboo Simbel were hewn for the great Rameses.

Leaving the fountain on our right, we arrive almost immediately in front of the Byzantine Court, where, resting beneath the foliage, are eight effigies of knights from the Temple Church, London. They are clad, with one exception, in ring-mail, and afford us perfect representations of military costume in the early part of the 13th century. They are usually called the Knights Templar; but without evidence: the cross-legged statues are probably crusaders. The entire series has been carefully restored by Mr. Richardson. The first two statues in front of the German Mediæval Court, as we face the entrance, are fine examples of German Gothic sculpture, from Cologne and Nuremberg: the three subjects beyond them are from Langen Church, Germany. The two first statues on our right are from the façade of Wells Cathedral, and next to them are various examples of German sculpture. Facing the English Mediæval Court, will be noticed, on each side of the entrance, the effigies of Bishop Kilkenny from Ely Cathedral, Henry III. from Westminster, and of Longespée from Salisbury Cathedral: the two last being especially interesting monuments of the 13th century.

On the right of the entrance, and nearest to the Nave, are two statues from Wells Cathedral, noticeable as fine examples of Early English sculpture, and the effigy of Bishop Northwold from Ely. Nearer the façade is placed the remarkable effigy of Queen Philippa, the wife of Edward III., from Westminster Abbey, belonging to the last half of the 14th century. Beyond this again, will be noticed the effigy from Salisbury Cathedral, of Bishop Poer, who died in 1228, one of the earliest monumental statues in England. In front of the façade of the French Mediæval Court, will be found several pieces of Gothic sculpture of the early period of the Pointed style, from Chartres Cathedral; on the right of the entrance from the Nave are placed the busts of Henry II. and Diana of Poictiers, Henry III., Bayard and Louis XII., and nearer to the Nave will be seen the Virgin “de Trumeau,” from Notre Dame, at Paris; and a fine picturesque bronze statue of a knight from the monument of Maximilian, of Innspruck, in the Austrian Tyrol, a remarkable work of art, executed by native artists in the early part of the 16th century. Close to this is placed the fine bronze statue of Albert of Bavaria, from the tomb of Lewis of Bavaria, at Munich, remarkable as serving to illustrate the very rich and characteristic costume of the close of the 16th century. Opposite to it is the very fine St. George, by Donatello, from Florence, one of the master-pieces of that celebrated sculptor, whilst another Innspruck statue occupies a position nearer the Nave. Advancing onwards, still in front of the Renaissance Court, we recognise amongst the busts, those of Francis I., Sully, and Henry IV. of France, Shakspeare, Machiavelli, Ben Jonson, Cosmo de’ Medici, and Lord Bacon. The bronze statues on each side of the path are from the Tartarughe fountain, at Rome, the extreme figure being the celebrated Bacchus, by Michael Angelo. Amongst the works of Italian art placed in front of the Italian Court, we remark the Bacchus by Sansovino, from Florence, the Triton from the gardens of the Doria palace, Genoa, the Tartarughe statues from Rome, and at the angle, in front of the Italian vestibule, the beautiful statue of Mercury, by John of Bologna, a _chef-d’œuvre_ of the 16th century school. Among the busts will be remarked those of Raffaelle and Michael Angelo, Inigo Jones, Mazarin, Richelieu, Charles I., and other celebrities of the Renaissance period.

A little further on in front of the Court of Monuments of Art, we remark two statues of Perseus; one by Cellini, and the other by Canova. That by Cellini is characterised by a grandeur of conception and power of execution, which place his name among those of the greatest sculptors of his day. Cellini’s description of the casting of this statue is, in the highest degree, interesting. Not having sufficient metal to complete it, he threw into the furnace his metal dishes and porringers, amounting to upwards of two hundred; after offering up a prayer to heaven in company with his workmen, he uncovered his statue and found it thoroughly cast, with the exception of one foot. The plaster cast in the Crystal Palace is, we believe, the only one in the world, and was obtained through the liberality of the Duke of Sutherland, the owner of the only bronze cast of the original, which stands in the grand square at Florence.

We now cross the Central Transept, still keeping to the left hand or garden side of the Nave. At the angle of the Transept will be found the Concert Room, for the special performance of vocal, chamber, and classical music. The room is quadrangular, but open towards the Nave, and on three sides is surrounded by galleries. The space appropriated to visitors on the ground floor, and which is fitted with seats, is 96 feet square, and with the galleries is capable of accommodating about 3000 people. The Orchestra, built on the garden side of the room, will easily accommodate 60 performers.

Around the outside of the Concert Room will be found many most interesting busts belonging to the Portrait Gallery, mostly of the illustrious men and women of France. Amongst them we remark Jean Goujon (196), Félibien (203), Rachel (216), Corneille (218), Lafontaine (220 a), Molière (221), Racine (225), Voltaire (233), Le Sage (230), Buffon (245), Cuvier (256), Bayard (257), Gaston (258), Coligny (260), Turenne (266), Massena (279), Ney (283); busts of nearly all the generals and statesmen of the Consulate and Empire, and of the leading men of the Republic of 1848; three busts of Napoleon Buonaparte, which may be advantageously compared together, and the present Emperor Louis Napoleon (312). Close to this compartment is one of Mr. Rimmel’s fountains, executed from a design by Mr. John Thomas. The crystal basin, Parian marble figures, ebony pedestal, and natural flowers, harmonise excellently. Similar scent fountains, designed with great taste by the same artist, and supplied by Mr. Rimmel, will be found in the North and South Transepts.

Quitting the Concert Room, we continue our examination of the statues, which extend along this side of the Nave. The most notable of the succeeding subjects are the Prodigal Son (145), by San Giorgio; David (147), by Magni, an artist whose studies of every-day life are remarkable for their truth to nature; Cain (99), by Etex; Geefs’s Malibran (108); a colossal group of the Murder of the Innocents (142); an Italian Mower; the Horse and Dead Knight (46), by Lough; Sampson, by Legrew; and also the charming statues of Eve, and Eve Listening, by Bailey. On our way towards the Queen’s screen we pass several works of statuary art, amongst which may be noticed, A Faun with Cymbals (66), by R. Westmacott, R.A., and a David (67*), by the same sculptor; an Ancient Briton as a Scout, and the Massacre of the Innocents, by J. E. Adams, and a fine statue of Erato (174), by Launitz.

THE BOTANY OF THE PALACE.

However beautiful and perfect may be the works of art by which we are surrounded, there is a Hand whose meanest work outvies them all, yet whose silent and beneficent wonders are going on around us. To the unobservant man nature is silent. He knows not the rich treasure he neglects, and the eloquent teachings, the more loved the more they are known, which he never listens to. Of all nature’s developments, perhaps not one is so universal or so important as that of which we are now going to treat. The character, the habits, the civilisation, almost the very existence of men is determined by the vegetation of the countries they inhabit, and where no vegetation is, the land is desert indeed. Our kindliest memories of foreign lands, and of our own country’s beautiful spots, are inseparably linked with the foliage and verdure which adorns the rugged earth, and is, as it were, the handwriting of the Almighty’s blessing and distinction. It is not the burning sun alone that makes the tropical island appear so different to our own: there seems a wider difference still, between the rank and tangled luxuriance of the tropical forest, and the stately glades of England--or between the prodigal wealth of almost wild fertility, and the field surrounded by hedgerows, whose riches are the reward of patient and necessary cultivation. There is indeed beautiful instruction in all nature’s phases and mysteries, but none more beautiful than that conveyed by plants and flowers. The greatest minds have turned their strength to the culture of the field or garden, and the gentlest and best hearts seem to be the most fitting home for the love of beauty so pure and true.

It is impossible in the pages of this book to do more than point out some of the most interesting and beautiful of the specimens which constitute the rich botanical collection of the Crystal Palace. Amongst such a multitude of examples many of the greatest interest necessarily find no mention here, but they are not the less to be observed. The smallest and most unobtrusive plant may be the most worthy of notice, and in its relations with human life the most deadly, the most medicinal, or the most grateful. The history and attributes of almost every one will lead us on a course fraught with knowledge, and a pleasure which study unveils more and more.

The Borders, which range along each side of the Nave fronting the façades of the various Courts, are all numbered, as will be seen by a reference to the plan. The South and North Transepts are filled with trees and flowers. The divisions of the Natural History Illustrations are also filled with examples to represent, as much as possible, the flora of the various countries. We propose to accompany the visitor from Border No. 1, close to the Screen of Kings and Queens, and following the arrangement of the Borders up this, the South-Western side of the Palace, to return on the opposite or garden side.

In Border No. 1, we first notice an example of one of the finest and largest timber trees of New Zealand, the native name of which is the Kakaterre (_Dacrydium taxifolium_). This is a tree of giant growth. Just beyond the statue of Chatham are two specimens of the _Melaleuca_, some of the species of which furnish the Australian aborigines with a kind of tea; this beautiful species of tree is almost exclusively peculiar to Australia, and contributes much to form the character of Australian vegetation. Against the Column, and adjacent in this Border, are also several fine plants, some of which are 30 feet high, of the Australian Acacia (_Acacia foliosa_). The early foliage of this tree, it is interesting to observe, is characterised by a larger development than it assumes with more advanced growth; these differences can easily be distinguished in the plants before us, which may be identified by their light-coloured and elegant leaves. Another large Acacia (_Melanoxylon_) is near the angle of the South Transept, and on the left of it perhaps one of the finest specimens of the _Rhododendron arboreum_ from Nepaul. This magnificent tree was one of the first of this species sent out after its introduction into this country, and when only five inches high was purchased for five guineas. It bears rich scarlet flowers.

Turning now into the South Transept, one of the first specimens we notice, in Border No. 3, is a noble tree of the _Camellia reticulata_, perhaps the finest kind ever introduced of this magnificent flower; it is indigenous to China and Japan. Beyond this, as we pass from left to right down the Transept, is a tree of the New Zealand Spruce (_Dacrydium cupressimum_), whose delicate form and drooping foliage claim admiration; and almost behind this is a most interesting specimen of the Paraguay Tea Tree (_Ilex Paraguayensis_). The Maté, a curious Brazilian tea, is obtained from the prepared leaves of this plant. Immediately succeeding this in our course is the Camphor-tree (Cinnamomum camphora), from which the valuable drug of commerce is procured. This specimen is from China, but it also grows in Japan. Passing on a few steps, we find the _Ceratonia Siliqua_. This plant is eminently curious, as being that which bears the “locusts” on which it is presumed St. John fed, as mentioned in the Gospel; it has thus obtained the name of “St. John’s Bread.” The last great tree in this border is a magnificent Norfolk Island Pine (_Araucaria excelsa_), 40 feet high. This stately and beautiful tree grows in its own country to the height of 200 feet. On the other side of the Transept, in Border No. 5, which we now proceed to inspect, will be found a corresponding specimen, and many of the same kinds of plants as those we have just examined; but we may notice here, almost in the centre, a noble specimen of a beautiful new Fuchsia, called _Dominiana_; behind which may be seen the largest tree in this country of that species of Camellia known as “Lady Hume’s Blush.” In the centre of the Transept is placed a gigantic specimen of the American Aloe, which, for its magnificence of growth, is perhaps unequalled in this country. This specimen was brought in 1828, a small plant, from the ruins of the palace of the Cæsars at Rome, where it grew wild.

We now resume our tour up the Nave with Border No. 7. At this corner stands a most elegant and beautiful tree, the _Acacia dealbata_, a native of New Holand. This tree is perhaps the finest of its kind to be found in the kingdom. In the centre of this border rises a rare specimen of the _Yucca stricta_; its beautifully variegated and lance-shaped leaves constitute it a prominent object easy of recognition. Close to the column, a little further on, is the _Aralia trifoliata_, from New Zealand; a plant which possesses the peculiarity of shortening its curiously-formed leaf as its age advances.

Surrounding the Pompeian Court at the back of these borders, are specimens of the Azalea. On either side of the entrance to this Court are luxuriant Orange-trees, and near to them some Citron-trees.

In Border 7 _a_, at which we have now arrived, is a beautiful tree, called the _Araucaria Bidwillii_, the rigid foliage of which much resembles the imbricated Pine of Chili. The aborigines of Australia make a favourite article of food of the seeds from the large cones of this tree, which attain the size of a child’s head. But one of the most prominent of the trees in this compartment stands a little nearer the column. This is the Bottle-Brush plant of Australia, and when in bloom with its red bosses of flowers, from which it has been named, it bears a very curious appearance. The Japan Cedar (_Cryptomeria japonica_) is also here. This tree was brought from China by Mr. Fortune. The Borders opposite the Sheffield Court are filled with many rare and beautiful specimens; but those Borders which are close to the glass façade contain some plants of the highest curiosity and beauty. In the centre of the left-hand Border will be found the _Socotrine Aloe_, from which is procured the medicine which bears its name. On either side of the entrance to the Court are two magnificent specimens of the Tree Ferns of Tasmania and Australia, whose luxuriant crowns make them objects of the highest beauty. These plants are without doubt the finest specimens of this luxuriant Fern in this country. At either extremity of the Borders are most interesting specimens of Bromeliaceous plants, with which, till lately, the pine-apple was classed. The Fuchsias here are upwards of 40 feet high.

Returning now to the Nave, we find in Border No. 9 _a_, a beautiful silver-leaved Acacia, grouped with other plants of the greatest interest, amongst which may be pointed out a New Zealand Palm (_Areca sapida_), and an _Agnostis sinuatis_, recognisable by its peculiar leaf. At the end of this Border will also be found the Botany Bay Fig-tree, and the _Olea Europea_, from which the olive-oil of Commerce is procured. The succeeding Borders Nos. 11 and 11 _a_, opposite the Birmingham Court, contain selections of most valuable and interesting plants, similar in many respects to those we have described; amongst them may be noticed the _Freycinetia Baueriani_ from Norfolk Island. Close to the entrance of the Birmingham Court, in Border 11 _b_, is the new and beautiful _Mitraria Coccinea_ from South America.

We now arrive at Border No. 13, opposite the Stationery Court, the largest and most prominent tree in which is the _Eucalyptus globulosus_, or Blue Gum-tree of Australia. This plant has already attained the height of 80 feet, and is but five years’ growth. In its natural state this is a Mammoth tree. Mr. Backhouse, the traveller, has described one of this kind, which was nearly as high as the great Water Towers at the Crystal Palace, being 250 feet, with a circumference at the base of 70 feet. But this was most probably an exceptional specimen. They are most frequently not more than half that size. The common Myrtle is the type of the class to which this tree belongs; but it is the largest of the myrtaceous plants. The _Eucalypti_ constitute four-fifths of the forests of New Holland. Gum is procured from this tree in large quantities.

Round the column, in the corner of Border No. 13 _a_, is a fine plant of the Cape Gooseberry, which bears a beautifully acid fruit, much esteemed by some. The fruit is curiously inclosed in an inflated capsule. Although called the Cape Gooseberry, this plant is originally from Australia. In this Border are various specimens of New Zealand and Australian plants. The remaining Border, before we enter the Central Transept, is filled mostly with a collection of large _Acacia_. Having crossed the Central Transept, as we proceed toward Border No. 19, which is in front of the Egyptian Court, we pass Border No. 17, which is filled with _Eucalypti_, as that in a corresponding position on the other side of the Transept is with _Acaciæ_.

In Borders Nos. 19 and 19 _a_, will be found large specimens of the _Sparmannia Africana_, an old conservatory favourite, indigenous to the Cape. It was named in honour of Dr. Sparman, the Swedish physician and botanist, who accompanied Captain Cook in his second voyage round the world. These fine trees were presented by Her Majesty the Queen. Close to the _Sparmannia_ is a large India-Rubber-tree, the sap of which constitutes the article now so extensively known and used. It will easily be recognised by its broad, handsome, and glossy leaves. This tree belongs to the Fig tribe, all kinds of which bear sap with more or less the same properties. A plant close to this is the _Loquat_, or Japan Medlar, which is curious from its peculiarity of shedding its bark. A little nearer to the Court will be found a most elegant plant of the Grass tribe, the Himalayan Bamboo, a small and delicate cane, which is found high up the Himalayas, and consequently flourishes in a lower degree of temperature than the common tropical Bamboo. The remaining examples to be noticed in these Borders are amongst the most curious in the collection. The first is the _Rhipidodendron plicatile_, so named from the fan-like growth of the leaves. The common lily is the type of the order to which this plant belongs. The next are the curious African plants, like rough blocks of wood, which are called “Elephant’s Foot.” These remarkable plants are calculated as being 3000 years old: they were imported from the Cape of Good Hope. The _Casuarina stricta_, of Australia, is also here, with its curiously jointed foliage. The wood of this plant, from its peculiar conformation and colour, has gained for the tree the name of Beef-wood. In its native state it attains a great size. Several kinds of the temperate Palms, Ferns, and Aloes are also arranged in this position.

The most noticeable tree in Border No. 21, is a luxuriant specimen of the Moreton Bay Pine (_Araucaria Cunninghamii_). In the succeeding Border, No. 21 _a_, is another of the _Eucalypti_, the leaves of which, it is curious to remark, change from round to lance-shaped as the tree advances in growth; and in the further corner is the _Geitonoplesium_, a trailing plant of the same order as the common Asparagus. In Border No. 23 _a_, just opposite the column, is the Peppermint tree, of Australia (_Epyclautus piperata_).

We now pass through the division into the Tropical end of the building, where necessarily many of the most interesting and beautiful of trees and plants are congregated. Most of the examples we have hitherto examined have borne, more or less, some resemblance, if not in detail yet in character, to the vegetation which we everywhere see around us in England. But here we notice a new form, reputed to surpass them all, and at least very rich in those glories which have won its repute,--we mean the Palms. This form of vegetation gives more distinctive character to tropical and eastern scenery, than any other natural feature. The stem often rising to the altitude of 100 feet, in a stately column, crowned with a capital of beautiful leaves, radiating from its summit, or gracefully drooping; sometimes of a feathery form, sometimes fan-shaped of broader growth; some of dark, shining verdure, and others of a delicate silvery aspect: they constitute one of the most beautiful families of the vegetable kingdom. The leaves of some kinds are gigantic; those of the _Manicaria saccifera_, of Brazil, are 20 feet in length, and six feet in breadth. Humboldt has described the Wax Palm of the Cordilleras growing to the majestic height of 180 feet. Nearly all varieties are most prolific in fruit, and with most, scarcely a portion but what is applied to some use by the natives of the countries they inhabit. Their great importance, then, to many of the human family entitles them to particular study and attention, beyond the brief mention we can give them here; and the pleasant task will be well repaid.

The Borders in the Tropical Division are numbered distinctively from the other part of the building, commencing with Border No. 1, in which is a plant of the India-Rubber-tree, which is probably the largest of its kind in the building, and nearer to the corner is a specimen of the Wine Palm (_Caryota Urens_). On the side opposite the Court will be found the silk Cotton-tree of India (_Bombax Ceiba_), and, further round, the Sandbox-tree of India (_Hernandia Sonora_). In Border No. 3, which corresponds in position on the other side of the Alhambra Court, is an Egyptian Date Palm, and also a Wax Palm from South America. In Border No. 5 we notice a group of _Musæ_, amongst which beautiful class of plants are the Banana and Plantain, perhaps the commonest and most nutritious of tropical fruits. Hemp and flax are obtained from the fibrous leaves, which are also used for thatching and basket-making. A sort of wine is made from the juice of the trunk. The fruit is eaten both raw and cooked, while the young shoots are consumed as vegetables. In the centre of this Border, which runs along parallel with the Alhambra Court, is one of the species of Sago (_Saguerus sacchifera_); another kind (_Cycas revoluta_) is near the column. The Indians as well as Chinese procure Sago from this tree. The Sago is prepared from the pith of the trunk, selected however at a proper season; it is made into bread by the natives who prepare it, and from this it has received its name, which in the language of the Papuas means bread. It is more prolific in nutritious matter than perhaps any agricultural plant, a single trunk sometimes yielding as much as 600lbs. of Sago. Round these Sago Palms is arranged a collection of various specimens of the Fig tribe (_Ficus_) from South America. Between the centre columns is a plant of the _Jatropha Manihot_, whose root is one of the most important articles of food in the tropics; it is made into bread called Cazavi or Cassava, which is very nutritious; and Tapioca is also obtained from it. A very poisonous juice has first to be extracted by pressure, or eliminated by heat, before the root can be prepared for food. In the corner of the Border we are now inspecting is another tree, from which also bread is made; this is the Caffre Bread-tree (_Encephalortus_.) The natives remove the bark and make flour from the trunk.

We may now turn into the Avenue of Sphinxes, between which is arranged a rich collection of beautiful Palms--Cocos, Date-Palms, Wine-Palms, Cabbage-Palms, and many other varieties. At the corner as we turn again into the Nave stands the _Cocos plumosa_, a peculiarly beautiful specimen, which may be remembered as having adorned the Great Exhibition in 1851.

We now arrive at Borders No. 7 and 9, opposite the Assyrian Court. In this position is arranged a selection of tropical fruit plants, and of those bearing articles of food. It will not be necessary to do much more than enumerate most of these, as their produce is so well known, and forms the daily or occasional food of most. At this end of the Border will be found the Tamarind-tree, the Pepper-plant, the Sea-side Grape, from the West Indies, the Coffee-tree, the Chili-Capsicum, the fruit of which makes a delicious pickle, the Jujube, the Assam Tea-plant, so extensively cultivated by the East India Company, the Cow-tree of the Caraccas, and, advancing up the front of the Border, two kinds of Ginger, the common and a spurious kind, the Rose-apple of the East Indies, the Avocado Pear, and the Peruvian Custard-apple, at the back of which is the Castor-oil plant, the Jack-tree, and the Malabar Nut. We continue the collection with the Star-apple of the West Indies, the Madagascar Nutmeg, the Allspice, and the Cassia Bark. We here meet a fine group of fruiting Bananas, beyond which we shall notice with interest the Indian Mimusops, and the plant from which our common Black Pepper is derived (_Piper nigrum_). The _Dimocarpus Longan_, and the Chinese Litchi-Fruit tree, are near, as well as a most interesting plant called the Ordeal-tree, from Madagascar. The fruit is a sort of bean, and deadly poisonous. When the priests in Madagascar wish to rid themselves of a state enemy, or to remove a rich man for the sake of his goods, recourse is had to some pretence, and an ordeal is instituted which consists in eating the fruit of this tree, harmless of course to the innocent, but to the guilty, poisonous. The crafty priests carry out their views by substituting an innocuous berry similar in appearance, excepting where they wish the pretended guilt to manifest itself with death.

The arrangement of the corresponding Border, No. 9, is very similar to that which we now quit, but we shall find here in addition, the Cinnamon-tree, the Peruvian Bark, the Bohea Tea-tree, the leaves of which we daily consume as plain black tea, another kind of Allspice (_Myrtus pimenta longifolia_), the Guava of West India, a most delicious and well-known fruit, the Sapodilla Plum, and the Chinese Paper Plant. In the small Border near the aviary, which terminates the series on this side, is an interesting specimen called the Looking Glass Plant, from the silvery appearance of the underside of the leaf. Here also is a magnificent example of the Black Bamboo, the canes of which are used for a great variety of useful purposes, and for ornament as well. The rapid growth of this plant is astounding, the shoots of the present specimen having often increased in height at the rate of more than 12 inches daily.

In the centre of this, the northern extremity of the Nave, rises one of the finest specimens to be met with in this country of the noble _Sabal Palmetto_. This tree represents the extensive group of Palms, having palmate or fan-shaped leaves. A curious fibre hangs in graceful ringlets from the foliage. On the right hand of this splendid tree, we commence our return down the garden side of the Nave with Border No. 10. In the corner stands a large group of Bamboos. This species attains a much greater size than its cogener on the other side: in its native wilds the stems often exceed the height of 100 feet, the growth of a single season. The stems seldom grow higher after the first year, but become densely clothed with delicate leafy branches. This may almost be called the domestic Bamboo, as it furnishes material for an almost infinite variety of domestic articles. In this Border are two other large varieties of Palm. The first _Corypha sylvestris_, from New Holland, is, like the _Sabal Palmetto_, a Fan-Palm. The _Coryphæ_ are so called from _Koryphe_, the summit, as the leaves branch only from the top of the trunk, making a very stately and beautiful form. This tree surmounts a group of root-work, upon which are planted rare Orchids, Ferns, and a variety of other beautiful exotics. The large Borders on this side of the Tropical Department are mostly made in this picturesque manner. If we now pass on we find close to the column a large Coffee-tree, from Yemen, which in the autumn bears its interesting berries. Close to this is a lofty Screw Pine (_Pandanus odoratissimus_) from the East Indies. The flowers of this tree are so deliciously fragrant that in Egypt and Arabia it is often cultivated for their sake; the fruit somewhat resembles the pine-apple, but is not so good. In the South Sea Islands, where this species grows in great plenty, the natives convert its leaves and products into a variety of uses and ornaments. It has received its name from the screw-like arrangement of its foliage, and not from the appearance of the trunk. It will be noticed that the roots are partially above ground, and constitute a kind of support which strengthens according to the peculiarities of position in which the tree grows. The roots from some of the _Pandani_ descend thus, like tightly strained cords, from a height of 12 or 15 feet. The great Palm-tree in the centre of this bed is upwards of 40 feet high. It is from the Isle of Bourbon (_Latania Borbonica_), and once formed part of the renowned collection at Fontainebleau of the Empress Josephine. We are now standing under the luxuriant branches of the _Ficus Roxburgii_, a curious Fig-tree which bears its fine fruit on the stem close to the ground. Further back, on the left of the great Palm, is a Mahogany-tree from Honduras, and a fine fruit-bearing specimen, 14 feet high, of the delicious Guava. But it is impossible here to particularise the rich contents of these Borders; as in our progress through the whole collection we are forced almost casually to choose from so many objects of interest; but it is hoped that the mention only of these may awake an interest which investigation will increase.

At the back of the Border just mentioned, is arranged a large collection of exotic plants in pots, amongst which will be found the Gamboge tree, and the Bread Fruit tree, from the South Sea Islands. Also the Strychnine plant (_Strychnos Nux vomica_), the nuts of which contain the deadly poison of that name.

At the corner of the succeeding Border, No. 8, next the garden, is one of the most valuable and rare specimens in the kingdom, of the beautiful _Araucaria Cookii_ from New Caledonia. The soft and luxuriant foliage of this tree, and the surpassing beauty of its form, every branch, with its rich pendulous load falling most symmetrically in a regular gradation of graceful positions, constitute it one of the most beautiful of its kind in the whole vegetable kingdom. Numerous specimens of Palms and of the beautiful flowering plants and shrubs of the Tropics adorn this division. A splendid example of the Gum Dragon tree of Teneriffe (_Dracæna Draco_), the same kind as the famous tree of Oratova; also a New Holland Palm (_Seaforthia robusta_), are found here. Here also is the Traveller’s tree from Madagascar, the grateful shade it affords having gained it its name. The Palm bearing the highest position in this bed is the _Sabal Blackburnianum_, the leaves of which are amongst the largest of their kind. Against the column at the south-west corner of the bed, in the Nave, hangs the curious Elk’s Horn Fern (_Platycerum grande_), from Australia. This parasite abounds on the rocks and the bark of the large trees in the forests of Moreton Bay.

Before quitting the Tropical Department we will now continue our inspection of the Borders on the east side of the Nave. It is unnecessary to particularise the plants in these Borders, as they have been purposely arranged in as much uniformity as possible with the corresponding collection on the other side. Opposite the Byzantine Court may however be noticed four funereal Cypresses from the Vale of Tombs, in North China, and in Border No. 4 a graceful plant of the Fig tribe (_Ficus Pumila_) from China, and the handsome New Zealand Laurel (_Carynocarpus lævigatus_). On the northern side of the South Transept, in Border No. 6, is the Nepaul Berbery (_Berberis Nepaulensis_). This specimen is remarkable for its height and beauty of foliage. It is a newly introduced species. At the back of this tree will also be found a fine example of the New Zealand Flax (_Phormium tenax_). In Border No. 6, at the end of the Transept, is the Brazilian Pine (_Araucaria Braziliensis_). A remarkable specimen of the Australian Fig tree (_Ficus macrophylla_), is in Border No. 2.

In the Natural History Department the most noticeable plants have been selected to represent as far as it was possible the flora of the respective countries. Thus, in the Australian division the _Araucaria_, _Tree Ferns_, and _Eucalypti_, or Gum Trees, are most conspicuous. The other divisions contain many most interesting plants, such as the Tea trees, which are all arranged geographically in their respective positions, and can be readily identified. In the division on the western side of the Nave, many of the beautiful plants are very well known, though indigenous to South, Central, or North America. The Fuchsias, Cacti, Yuccas, Aloes, and some _Araucariæ_, are amongst these.

It remains now to speak of the splendid collection of Orange and Pomegranate trees which form the noble vista of the Nave, and are principal features amongst the beauties of the Crystal Palace. Some of these are four hundred years old. They once belonged to the Orleans family, and in the latter times of the late dynasty in France were collected by Louis Philippe to decorate his favourite château at Neuilly. Shortly after the accession of the Emperor Napoleon, the property of the Orleans family was sold by public auction, and these matchless natural productions were then purchased by Sir Joseph Paxton for the Crystal Palace Company; there are 110 of these trees in all.

The hanging baskets, which form so delightful an array high up on either side of the Nave, and around each Transept, cannot fail to attract the notice of the visitor. The creeping plants, which cover the columns and cross-ties on each side of the walks, are of great luxuriance and beauty, while at the corner of the South Transept will be noticed a gigantic specimen of the lovely _Westeria_ which is rapidly covering the wide span of the Nave at this part. This was one of the first trees of the kind which was introduced into this country, and it thrives here exceedingly well.

It must have been apparent to the reader how very cursory has been the notice given to the most interesting plants and trees in these pages, and how few of the many specimens have been referred to. Such was a necessity. Yet it is hoped that as the Crystal Palace calls all the aids of Art to the teachings which it conveys, so Nature (a greater teacher still) may side by side yield her lesson too. To the lover of the beautiful it needs small prompting to explore her mysteries, and the rich expression she bears of that he seeks.

Mr. George Eyles is the chief superintendent of the whole Interior Garden.

THE GALLERIES.

THEIR FINE ART, AND OTHER COLLECTIONS.

The main Galleries around the Central Transept, and to the south with the exception of that on the western side toward the road, are devoted to the exhibition and sale of articles of industry. The Picture Gallery is in the gallery which runs over the Stationery Court and the series on that side. The galleries on the eastern side next the garden, with the South Gallery at the end of the building, are devoted to the exhibition of those articles which are for sale on the spot. Amongst these will be found precious metals and jewellery, miscellaneous ornaments, perfumery, toys, and other articles both of use and luxury. The gallery presents a pleasing and animated appearance, the stalls are fitted up on an elegant and uniform plan, and the traffic at them is very considerable. At the western end of the Great Transept the gallery is allotted for the exhibition of manufactured articles, which are not for sale on the spot. The collection is of a miscellaneous, though most interesting character. On the first gallery above this will be found a most interesting collection of drawings and models for the fountains in the Crystal Palace, which have been furnished by Mr. M. D. Wyatt, Mr. Owen Jones (the figures on whose designs were modelled by Signor Monti), Mr. John Thomas, Mr. John Bell, Baron Marochetti, Baron Launitz, and Mr. Hector Horreau. The models display much artistic treatment and inventive fancy.

If we now descend the spiral staircase to the main gallery, and proceed through the industrial exhibition to the right-hand we shall enter the main gallery, on this side, running toward the south end. Here is formed

THE PICTURE GALLERY.

The first portion which we enter, before reaching that part of the gallery immediately over the Stationery Court, is appropriated to the exhibition of photographic pictures both British and foreign, several important water-colour pictures by the most eminent members of the two Societies, and a selection of remarkable pastel pictures.

The long gallery which stretches from this point to the south end of the building has been properly fitted for the exhibition of pictures. The glass wall toward the road has been covered, and a partition wall erected on the opposite side over the courts, excepting over the passage ways between the courts. The light comes from the roof with duly modified intensity, and the effect on the pictures is singularly beneficial and clear. Thus a magnificent gallery of pictures is formed, sweeping in one uninterrupted line, from the centre to the end of the building, or for a distance of 700 feet. The effect is very grand and at the same time beautiful, while the convenience and ample space will be noticed as a contrast to many picture galleries. There are upwards of 900 pictures of the British, French, Dutch, Belgian, and German Schools, being all by living artists, and for sale; the titles, prices, and Painters’ names are affixed to each picture.

As we near the south end we shall notice some very fine examples of the ancient masters, several of them being from the galleries of Marshal Soult, and the Lucca, Orleans and other celebrated collections. The specimens of the Gothic art of Flanders and Germany are very remarkable, and many of the early Italian pictures most worthy of particular notice. The early Gothic collection is one of the finest ever seen in England, and is only surpassed by the Boisserée and Ertborn galleries of Munich and Antwerp. These curious works keep the full lustre of their original colouring, and in this respect form a great distinction to many modern works. Mr. C. W. Wass is intrusted with the management of this department.

We may now proceed through the South Gallery and the Industrial Bazaar on the other side to the garden end of the Great Transept, where, in the gallery above, which we may reach by the spiral staircase, we shall find one of the most interesting departments in the Palace, as it is one of the most instructive--

THE INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM AND TECHNOLOGICAL COLLECTION.

The object of this collection is to convey by means of actual illustration that instruction in the modes and various stages of industrial manufactures, and of the arts, which cannot be so accurately gained from books or descriptions; as well as, by the same plan, to trace the original plants, ores, or annuals, from which the material manufactured is derived, and to illustrate by products the several stages of its manufacture. This plan of arrangement therefore escapes the monotony which is usual in ordinary museum collections, and will be found equally interesting as instructive. It is not possible in this book to particularise by any long description any of the series comprised in so extensive a collection; it is not therefore attempted, but the leading features and positions of the gallery are indicated to direct the investigation of the visitor himself, who will find very accurate, and in many cases detailed notices appended for his instruction, to the objects themselves.

We enter the gallery by the spiral staircase in the Central Transept Gallery on the garden side of the building, and shall find that division devoted to the minerals, which we will explore first, at the left-hand extremity of the gallery. The vegetable division is naturally the largest, and occupies all the central cases and some portion of the right hand or northern extremity, where the third and last--the animal division--is situated. A plan detailing plainly this arrangement will be found suspended against the first case on the left as we enter. The first cases of the mineral division, which are those in front of the gallery on the left-hand, are devoted to what are commonly termed the _non-metallic_ elements and their most important compounds, that is to say, those compounds in which the non-metallic element is the one technically important, arranged in the order in which they are generally treated in works on Chemistry. It may be necessary here to observe, that in order to avoid needless repetition in the classification of the chemical compounds, this plan has been adopted throughout. Thus, for instance, Bleaching Powder, which might be arranged under the heads of both its constituents, Chlorine and Lime, as it is used only on account of the Chlorine, is classified under that element. In these cases we find varieties of Carbon, Products of the Distillation of Coal, Peat, &c. (Naphtha, Ammoniacal Salts, Paraffin, Dyes, &c.), and a beautiful series illustrating the manufacture of Sulphur. Succeeding these are shown the varieties of Silica, under which head a rich case of English Agates from the Sussex coasts must be particularly noticed. The Silicates embrace the different manufactures of glass, amongst which are some beautiful artificial gems. Etching upon glass is also illustrated here. We now come to the Alkaline Metals,--Potassium, Sodium, and their salts. The next are the minerals of the Alkaline earths, Barium, Strontium, Calcium (Lime), and Magnesium, and their sundry preparations. The cements come under this division. The next cases are devoted to Aluminous products, and in this class will be found complete illustrations of one of the most important and interesting of British manufactures--the Ceramic. The series commences with a collection of the clays from different formations, and the process by which the Devon, Dorset, and Cornish clays, which are those used in earthenware and porcelain manufactures, are fashioned, decorated, and finished, is shown together with the materials used for glazes. The preparations of Alum by different processes, Emery, &c. are also in this division.

We now come to one of the most important series in the collection, and one in which the greatness and importance of this country is most emphatically illustrated. These are the Metals, properly so called. The arrangement adopted with these is first to show the ores from each district, next the mode of smelting those ores, the metal procured, and generally the manufacture of the metal. The Iron, of course, assumes the first importance. The Pig Iron is the first state in which the metal is obtained; it is then submitted to the refining and “puddling” processes; then rolled into bars, nails, and plates, or drawn into wire; we then see it converted into steel, by various processes including Bessemer’s, and this leads us to the manufactures of Sheffield. The series, of course, includes Copper, Zinc, Tin, Antimony, Gold, Silver, &c.

The central stands at this end of the gallery are occupied with a collection of the coals and building stones of England and Scotland, with a set of maps indicating the geological formation from which each is obtained.

The cases down the centre of the gallery are devoted to the Vegetable Kingdom. These are arranged as follows:--Products used as food, in the arts, and in manufactures, and in medicine. In the first class is a collection of British agricultural produce, made by Messrs. Peter Lawson & Son, of Edinburgh. The Cereals and Grasses will be found arranged in the upright cases, facing the garden and on the octagonal tables. In the cases beneath are the Roots and Fruits modelled in wax. The various growths and manufactures of Tobacco, of Hops, Spices, and aromatic Seeds, as well as Cocoa, Teas, Coffee, and their substitutes, and the articles used as food, should be specially noticed, being most completely illustrated. It will be noticed here, and also with most of the vegetable specimens in this collection, that reference is made upon the explanatory cards, which are in all cases affixed to specimens, to the fact that growing trees and plants of the various kinds may be found in the beds downstairs; and this will be found specially alluded to where the Botanical collection is described; it should be carefully borne in mind, and will, on being followed by inspection, yield an ample repayment of interest. We should now return down the side of the cases and commence our inspection of the other side, proceeding from the south end. We shall find the first set of cases illustrating the materia medica. The upper parts contain the plants, while in the lower divisions the drugs, seeds, and applied parts are shown. Next come the cork and other manufactures, including paper and paper-staining, those of Fats and Oils, India Rubber and Gutta Percha, with their various applications, Resins, Dyes and Dye-woods, these being further illustrated as with the materia medica by the plants from which they are procured. The illustrations of the Cotton, Flax, Hemp, the Pine Apple, China Grass and other fibres which are manufactured, will, with some other interesting articles in the cases opposite, conclude our rapid survey of the vegetable division, although we must not omit to notice a rich collection of the various woods, British, foreign, and Colonial, especially the large polished sections from Tasmania, collected and presented by the Royal Society of the Colony, arranged on stands at the North End.

The northern extremity of the gallery is occupied with the last division of the Museum--the Animal. Here will be found Furs of all kinds. Wools of British and imported varieties, Woollen and Worsted manufactures, Silk, illustrations of the preparation of different kinds of Leather, Feathers, Horn, Bone, and Tortoiseshell manufactures, &c., &c. Specimens of most of the animals from which these articles are derived are arranged in the middle of the division.

The whole Museum has been arranged by Dr. David S. Price, who has care of this department. The collection is constantly increasing, and may be expected before long to assume one of the most important positions amongst the settled features of the Crystal Palace.

In the Main Gallery on the North Eastern side of the Mediæval Court are placed four hundred French and Italian photographs, illustrative of the architectural and sculptural arts of the periods represented by the several Fine Art Courts on this side of the Nave; the photographs being arranged in the order of the courts beneath, and as nearly as possible over those which they serve to illustrate. Here also will be found the main portion of the busts constituting the

PORTRAIT GALLERY,

One of the most ennobling and instructive as well as interesting of the collections in the Crystal Palace. These busts give us the speechless, yet how eloquent, countenances of the great ones who have moved the current of the world’s life, from early times till the present moment. Each one of these busts is inscribed with the name and dates of whomever it represents; but for a notice of the lives and general information as to the claims to renown of the several notabilities, we refer the visitor to the Handbook of the Portrait Gallery. A fine collection of small works of art, consisting of statuettes, mediæval pottery and wood-work, church vessels, old English seals, medals, and architectural ornaments, exemplifying the various styles from the Byzantine down to the Italian, is also arranged here.

In the North-east Galleries, on the garden side of the North Transept, is a Naval Museum, which is intended to illustrate the naval architecture of all countries. Here will be seen models of boats and ships, from the first rude canoe to the patent collapsing boats; and from the huge high-pooped ship of war of the time of Henry the Eighth, and Philip of Spain, to the long screw steamer of the present day; or the gigantic paddle and screw “Leviathan,” lately launched at Millwall, together with various inventions for marine purposes. In the first gallery, at the extreme north end of the Nave, a collection is exhibited of engineering and architectural models, including those of bridges, docks, viaducts, churches, and other structures.

Entering the gallery by the stairs from the garden end of the North Transept, one of the first models we meet is in illustration of Mr. Fergusson’s System of Fortification. The great principle of this system is the power of placing in position on a fortified place a greater number of guns than the enemy can bring to bear upon any point of it. For this purpose, Mr. Fergusson proposes to erect simple mounds of earth, bearing two or three tiers of guns, where the place is large and the curve flat, and four or even five tiers, where the space is confined. The model represents a small confined space surrounded by five tiers; ensuring in his opinion, a superiority of fire over anything that can be brought against it. Mr. Fergusson proposes to employ wet ditches wherever water is available; but on dry or uneven ground, a ditch of fifty or sixty feet, with a loop-holed wall at the bottom, not less than thirty feet high, thoroughly flanked in every part by musketry and artillery from the small bastions placed at intervals along its fronts. The model represents upon its different faces, suggestions for various methods of arming the ramparts and of flanking defences.

Amongst the various ingenious and beautiful objects in this part of the gallery will be remarked models of the Kieff Suspension Bridge, the original of which is nearly half-a-mile long, over the river Dneiper; the Britannia Tubular Bridge; the Wrought Iron Bridge over the Wye, at Chepstow; and one of a similar construction over the river Tamar, at Saltash. Most of these, as also the fine Viaducts, of which many are represented, are due to the giant enterprise which steam traffic raised in our country. There are two crystal models here of the Great Exhibition Palace in Hyde Park; one, the largest, by Mr. Dighton, of London, on the scale of half an inch to the foot, is especially beautiful and complete.

THE INDIAN COURT.

Passing on in this gallery, at the back of the Assyrian Court, we enter a department appropriated as an Indian Court. The first object which we notice is a stand covered on both sides with a fine collection of Indian arms and armour arranged with other objects of interest. On the wall near is ranged a collection of most interesting paintings, lent to the Crystal Palace by the Hon. East India Company. They are copies of some frescoes found on the walls of a series of caverns at Adjunta, in Western India, and were made at the instance of the Indian Government by Captain Gill, of the Madras army. The subjects are scenes in the life of Buddha and of Buddhist saints, and various historical events connected with the rise and progress of the Buddhist religion in India. The date of their execution extends from about the Christian era to the tenth or twelfth century; and in style they closely resemble the contemporary works of painters in Europe, possessing nearly the same amount of artistic merit, and displaying the like absence of _chiar’-oscuro_, and the same attempt to copy with literal exactness the object represented, excepting where certain conventionalities are apparent. The collection is valuable as affording the means of comparing the state of art in the East with that in the West during the same period.

On the next stand are several Burmese idols and other curious objects, mostly belonging to the religious ceremonial of this people; among these will be noticed some very curious wood-carving; and we must not omit to notice in connection with these things, a very peculiar pagoda, or idol shrine, which stands close by. Placed along the floor are some very curious musical instruments, drums or tom-toms of various sizes, some instruments formed of pieces of hard wood, which on being struck sound the notes, and some having metal vessels, which produce a peculiar tone. Further on is a case filled with magnificently embroidered garments, saddle-cloths, &c., which display that craving after splendour which appears to be part of Oriental nature. In this case are also some other choice articles of very great beauty and value, amongst which may be pointed out a small Japanese cabinet; a hookah, a dagger and sheath wrought with silver, a pair of slippers embroidered with pearls, and other rare objects from Persia. Here also are some specimens of Chinese work. On the right of this case is a chamber devoted to Chinese curiosities. The walls are hung with paintings, representing the manufacturing and other industrial occupations of this truly curious people. In the centre is the figure of a Mandarin in his richly embroidered dress. Quitting this chamber the visitor will remark on either side of him some fine models of Indian Mosques, carved in wood, which will amply repay a careful inspection. They belong to the close of the 15th century. After examining the curious model of the encampment of an Indian prince, which now faces him, the visitor will notice a case containing a splendid collection of Javanese arms, some highly wrought with great beauty in gold and silver. This case also contains some wonderful carvings in ivory and pith, as well as other objects of great interest.

Immediately beyond the case which we have just examined will be found a model of the celebrated so-called gates of Somnauth. History and tradition have invested these gates with much interest. Nine centuries since, the temple of Somnauth was perhaps the richest shrine of rich India, and the splendid stronghold of its idolatry. There are many records of its unequalled riches--the revenues of 2000 villages are said to have been allotted for the maintenance of its establishment. In 1025, the sultan Mahmoud crossed the Indus from Ghuznee, and after many battles advanced to the temple and sacked it. In the adulations of the conqueror Hindoo paganism was said to have then irrecoverably bowed before the sword and faith of Mahomet. The avarice, however, of Mahmoud probably received greater gratification than his religious fervour. He is traditionally said to have carried the carved sandal-wood gates of the temple with him to Ghuznee, and to have made them the doors of the splendid mausoleum which he built for himself. When Ghuznee was taken by the British under the presidency of Lord Ellenborough, the doors (of which the present models are copies) were taken from the tomb, and invested with high interest on account of their traditional origin, but the style of art and inscriptions upon the gates themselves prove that in all probability they formed part of the tomb from which they were taken and were built with it. Near to this model will also be found some very finely carved furniture, and a case filled with a magnificent collection of Indian works, amongst which may be specially pointed out the beautiful and rich specimens of jewellery from Delhi and other provinces, some elaborate carvings in pearl, ivory, and tortoiseshell, and the gold-worked muslins for which, through many ages, India has been renowned.

The gallery over the Egyptian, Greek, and Roman Courts contains an interesting collection of Photographs, &c., illustrative of Oriental Architecture, and the various styles exemplified below, amongst which the Egyptian remains are particularly to be remarked. The full-sized casts from the original wall sculptures, which, are copied in the Egyptian Court below, will be found along this Gallery, as also various architectural and sculptural remains of classic times.

We should now descend the staircase to the left, and, crossing over to the eastern end of the Great Transept, we can reach the basement story of the building, which is on a level with the first Terrace. The Basement has been divided into two departments: that to the north is allotted to the exhibition of Agricultural Implements, &c.; in that to the south is arranged the important exhibition of Machinery in Motion.

THE AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENT DEPARTMENT.

The application of science to farming, and the great necessity that there is at the present day of availing ourselves of every mechanical improvement for the sake of economy, and for the better carrying out of the various agricultural operations, render the use of improved machinery an absolute necessity. And when we compare the flail of a few years ago with our present threshing-machines, and note how mechanical power has, in a very few years, almost entirely taken the place of hand-labour in this, as in every other art, we shall see that the improvement in agricultural machinery has been making most rapid strides, and that the manufacture of agricultural implements has grown to a most important industry.

The collection of these implements at the Crystal Palace supplies a desideratum that has been felt and acknowledged both by the public and by the manufacturers themselves--an emporium where the various machines of every maker may be brought together, so as to be seen at one glance and their respective merits examined; thus facilitating the selection by purchasers, and in some measure preventing the possibility of inferior implements being sent out. This has been partially effected by the exhibitions of the Smithfield Club, and by the periodical gathering of the Royal Agricultural Society; but it is only with the present attempt that the same thing on a permanent footing has been offered to the public. In the Crystal Palace are now exhibited and _sold_ the principal machines made by nearly all the first manufacturers; indeed, each firm has sent those machines for which it is chiefly noted, so that everything exhibited in this department must be of the very best; such, in short, as the manufacturers are most proud of. All the machines, &c., are sold by the Superintendent on the spot, at the same prices as at the makers.

These machines comprise a large collection of prize, portable, and fixed steam-engines; a large assortment of drill machines, both for drilling seed and manure; several reaping machines are also exhibited.

The threshing-machines are numerous, and are of very excellent construction. The improvements that have been made in them are very striking. It is really a curious sight to see the sheaves of wheat placed in at one end, and the winnowed grain passing out ready sorted into bags at the other; while the straw is carried by a mechanical contrivance to carts to be taken away. Here also we see digging machines, to perform wholesale the ancient duty of the plough, which was at all times an imperfect implement. The ploughs, however, that are shown are of the very best description, with many useful improvements. Portable houses for emigrants and others, and an immense assortment of entrance gates, and of poultry, sheep, and cattle fencing are also here to be found.

Haymaking machines for scattering the hay, and horse-rakes, are important substitutions for hand-labour. Draining-ploughs, for preparing a pathway for the pipes, and for laying the tiles, and draining levels are also exhibited. A large collection of chaff-cutters, bruising and grinding mills, oilcake breakers, steaming apparatus and pulping machines (the pulping machines are for preparing food, such as turnips or carrots, for cattle), grass-mowing machines, both for hand and horse-power, carts of every description, liquid manure carts, field rollers, and several descriptions of clodcrushers, brick and the machines, mortising and boring machines very well suited for making gates and hurdles, makes up the sum of this interesting exhibition.

THE MACHINERY IN MOTION.

Machinery is the most important feature in the modern history of our country. How it has enriched and extended our commerce, and built up the greatness of the nation, is an interesting and instructive reflection. It thus justly claims the important position which it here occupies. The long array of busy engines, which stretches almost as far as the eye can reach, forcibly reminds the visitor of this department in the old Crystal Palace of Hyde Park. Indeed, the most interesting set of machinery, that employed in cotton spinning, which instructed so many thousands in Hyde Park as to the manner in which the huge bale of cotton was transformed into the perfect woven fabric, is now to be seen here in full work. The set includes Beating Frames, Carding Engines, Drawing, Slubbing, and Roving Frames, Throstle Spinning Frames and self-acting Mules. Near at hand to this most perfect and beautiful collection of machinery, which was manufactured by Walker and Hacking, and Harrison & Co., are placed the rude wooden engines invented and used by Arkwright for the same purpose; thus we are enabled to measure at a glance the immense progress we have made in the course of less than a century. Proceeding lower down the gallery, the visitor is struck with astonishment at the massive machinery by which iron is hammered, drilled, punched, and planed as easily as so much deal. Messrs. Whitworth, Muir, and Harrison & Co., are the principal exhibitors of these ponderous engines. Advancing still further, the visitor witnesses a sugar-cane crusher in motion. Centrifugal pumps, Drying Machines, together with Steam Engines of all descriptions in full work form the next most important features, whilst innumerable other inventions and machines of a smaller character make this part of the palace one of the most interesting. The visitor can, if he choose, reach the South Wing through this department, and pass from thence down the Colonnade to the Railway Station; but he will most probably pass from the door under the Central Transept on to the first Terrace, and proceed to the inspection of the Gardens and Park, of which we treat in the next division.

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