THE COLOSSEUM.
Tim " stately pleasure-dome" in the Regent's Park is reopened, after a Adosure of many months; during which time it has been converted into a "palace of dainty devices," by the skill and taste of Mr. W. Bradwell, the scenic machinist, and the outlay of some thousands of pounds by its pro- prietor, Mr. Mountague. The main features of this unique exhibition, as it was first planned, are preserved, but heightened to a pitch of splendour and completeness not hitherto attained; and new attractions have been added be increase the variety, and produce different effects by day and by night.
On entering the saloon of sculpture, its magnificence strikingly exam- Piffles the change that has been produced throughout. It now presents the appearance of a circular colonnade of Ionic columns, supporting an archi- trave enriched with the Elgin frieze in miniature, and adorned with paint- ings; on which rests s. glass dome of immense size. Statues and busts by modern sculptors occupy the intercolumniations and niches in the wall, lighted from above ;-he cold whiteness of the statuary being relieved by pale blue draperies and the scarlet covers of settees, while the glare of light is attempered by diaper patterns on the glass. The ensemble is haste, and of classic elegance.
- In the centre of this rotunda, is the shaft enclosing the staircase leading to the Panorama, and also the ascending-roam by which visitors may be lifted to the top of the building. This lantern-like closet is superbly deco- rated with gilded panels of embossed leather, and a stained-glass ceiling. The panoramic view of London from St. Paurs still remains without a rival for its minute fidelity and illusory effect. The picture has been retouched, the smoke of the City partially cleared off, and the distance freshened.
Returning to the rotunda, and crossing a handsome refreshment-room, the Swiss cottage is reached ; and from its windows the view of alpine scenery em'ances a wider range than before: the waterfall descends rem a loftier height in greater volume; and the mimic rocks with the model eldge$ and mountain-pines, are backed by the lofty peaks of pictured Alps ants glacier advancing towards the edge of the lake. The grotto, or stalactitill cavern, with its artificial petrifactions and crystal caves illumined with co- loured light, invites the steps in another direction; and the conservatories. filled with exotic plants, the warm air freshened by fountains, offer an agree- able lounge. They have been gaily painted in the Moorish style; and an aviary, lined with mirrors so placed as to reflect objects many times, Lass most brilliant effect. Passing into the open air, the ruins of a Roman temple are entered upon; its broken dome hung with ivy and tenanted by owls, and its walls adorned with faded frescoes and mutilated statues. The scenic illusions are carried out to as high a degree of perfection as model- ling and painting can well go; and where the effect falls too far short of reality to delight those who have seen the originals of these mimic beau- ties, admiration of the taste and ingenuity of the artists becomes a source of pleasure. Thus much for the day exhibition. That for the evening includes a new panorama of London at nigh; which has not yet been exhibited.
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