Page:A tribute to W. W. Corcoran, of Washington City (IA tributetowwcorco00boul).pdf/89

 ledges of rock that assimilate the opening to a grotto, form a sort of bower to the pretty view, and stont sides are overrun with a delicate vine, making up something of the poetry and beauty of foreign scenery. No.79. Moonrise in Madeira, by Hildebrandt. This title can convey to the reader no other idea than the usual light that streams from the gentle orb of night, but the rare tone of coloring in this picture might have been dipped from the tropics in its fiery splendor and glowing beauty. Some few strips of the island are jutting out into the water, whose every ripple is lighted up with burnished gold, whilst the horizon has a warmth so intense as to make the wings of the sea-gulls appear blood-stained. On the shore a group of natives are sitting by some lighted brushwood, and the effect produced by these few firebrands is quite brilliant. Several boats lay at anchor. The artist enjoyed the intimate regard of Baron Humboldt, through whose instrumentality the picture was painted for Mr. Corcoran. No.81. A Female Figure from the Bath (oval) unknown. No.82. Child and Nurse, by Begas (copy). Here is beautiful youth in a natural state, as the fair complexioned, golden haired child has just undergone an ablution, and is pleased to return the compliment of the nurse's services by sponging the face of "dear old black mammy," who, alas! cannot be made white as snow. In a vine-clad recess near the boudoir are some baskets of flowers, and a little fountain splashing water, as though in company with baby's fingers in the miniature bath. No.83. Duck Shooting, by W. Ranney, 1850. Several sportsmen are surveying the successful result of their expedition. A sagacious dog is holding a fine duck by the wing, and looks as if he were wishing them to admit that some praise is due to his exertions. The sky wears the autumnal dark, the gray and purple shades.