THE NATIONAL GALLERY.
This week the National Gallery has reopened, after a recess prolonged beyond the usual period. The interval has been used to some purpose. More light is obtained ; the side-room, once distinguished as the abiding- place of Hogarth's genius, is again filled and opened ; the hanging of the pictures has been entirely redistributed ; frames are renovated, if not indeed, in some instances, replaced by fresh ones ; and some oppor- tune varnishing is perceptible. In fine, the whole place has gained in sightliness. A cursory glance, however, gave occasion for regret as regards one or two cases of rehanging. The recently acquired " Giorgione "—a picture of great loveliness whether it is a Giorgione or not, and whether or not there is a " vestige of the original colour " remaining—still yields the line to many and many works less worthy of careful inspection ; and the smaller and (as we think) better Turner is barbarously mounted above its fellow, flanked by the two large Claudes. This is certainly one way of fulfilling the terms of the painter's bequest, which stipulated that the pictures should be placed beside the Italian landscapes in question ; but it is a way neither creditable to the taste of the trustees, nor honour- able to English art, nor respectful to the memory and gift of her champion.
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