Page:A tribute to W. W. Corcoran, of Washington City (IA tributetowwcorco00boul).pdf/45



AVING given a summary of the uses and advantages of art, its stern requirements, as well as its gentle and poetical influences, we are glad to turn to that munificent patron, Mr. Corcoran, who recognizing fully what we have feebly attempted to handle, has presented to our nation an enduring monument to genius, a building dedicated to art, and a superb collection of paintings, statuary, &c. This noble edifice is the highest proof of the grandeur of art influencing the human mind as well as the affections, and it points not less at the generosity of the donor than his cultured taste and enthusiastic appreciation. Not only are the citizens of Washington grateful, but our whole country will honor this patron as the years glide on, adding to the list of admiring thousands. It is not alone in the contemplation of rare works that pleasure is granted, but a love of the beautiful is fostered, and the sentiments of nature are elevated and spiritualized. Such association subdues and reforms our coarse materialism. The realm of nature needs some direct pleasing influence to give it tone and character, truth and virtue, and the atmosphere of art is therefore as important to it as sunlight to earth. Our intellect and fancy must both be fed, for it is not allowed for us to live merely for creature