MR. WELD'S MODEL OF THE EARTH.
The great model of the earth, the requirements for whose adequate exhibition have induced the reclamation of the Leicester Square enclosure, has at length been opened to the public. We say at length as in relation to the period during which Mr. Wyld's undertaking has been more or less spoken of, and to the interest felt in the subject : for, in fact, the erection of a large and substantial building adapted to its purposes in their various bearings has occupied a surprisingly short time. It is not for us to enter here on a consideration of the manifold educa- tional and scientific uses to which Mr. Wyld's model may be applied. These are implied in the theory of the attempt ; and we must confine our- selves to observing that its realization will be found amply to suffice for their pursuit.. The model—which was originally designed for the Great Exhibition, until the impracticability of its being there seen to advantage became apparent—is 60 feet in width and 188 in circumference, occupy- ing a surface of 10,000 feet. Two sacrifices to expediency have been found indispensable : the representation of the earth on the concave in- stead of the convex surface of the sphere,—an arrangement at which, whatever doubts may on first thinking be entertained of it, we conceive few visitors of the exhibition will see cause to cavil; and the variation between horizontal and vertical scale in the modelling, (between ten miles and one mile to the inch,) without which the elevations and depressions on the face of the earth could scarcely be marked at all : nor, in the posi- tion of the sphere, has regard been had to the inclination of the ecliptic. It is probable that few persons will expect any particular artistic attrac- tiveness in the great globe : but they will be agreeably disappointed. The combined effect of form and colour, varied according to diversity of clinic and unencumbered with longitudinal or other geographic markings, is decidedly pictorial
The model is viewed, from the South to the North Pole, by ascending a central staircase to which galleries are attached. Auxiliary maps and other indications are placed at hand to assist the spectator in his survey ; and a pamphlet of copious notes has been produced to accompany Mr. Wyld's interesting and important exhibition.
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