authorities in charge a way to overcome the disadvantage of artificial
lighting at a very slight expense. The present means, which are no doubt
the best the electricians had at their command, are of the crudest
description. The four black back reflectors used to hide the lamps fail in
that purpose, and by the rough manner of hanging absolutely form four
black blotches. A bunch of strings is the first thing to catch the eye and
offend the taste. It takes a severe mental struggle to overcome their
effect so as to appreciate the subtle beauties of the painting. Surely the
authorities could borrow from some of our warehouses a couple of heavy
drapes, and mount the same on a wire across the whole end of the gallery.
The drapes could be looped back in the centre, and the lights could then
be placed behind the drapes on one batten each side and one across the
top. Whilst illuminating the painting to the best advantage they would be
themselves hidden, thus allowing all the wealth of colouring to be seen
without the taste being outraged as at present.—Yours, etc.,
A LOVER OF ART.
Perth, July 9.