• fine Irts.
The Royal Institute of British Architects have had under their con- sideration a proposition for establishing a system 'of examination in architecture, with a view to making it necessary for all gentlemen who practise and consider themselves as belonging to that department of art, to possess a diploma of qualification. The circular has been ad- dressed to the various provincial societies, of which there are now in existence a very considerable number, requesting an expression of their opinion upon the matter, and any suggestions or modification', of the plan which may be thought proper to be recommended. Considering the very great indifference shown by the Royal Academy- to the architects, this movement will probably be supported very gener.alty throughout the country. The study of architeeture as a sciende and as a branch of sa.; tiquarian research,has of late risen to so high an interest and importance that this proposition of the Institute cannot fail to recommend itself to I every well-wisher to the study of art mite most extended sense. The Board of Trade have transmitted the specifications the New Opera House to be built at Victim, to the Institute of British Architects; the notice that all foreign architects are invited to send plans having been sent through the Foreign Office. The three best designs will have prizes of 3000, 2000, and 1000 Verein thalers—about equal to 3001., 200/., and 1001. The plaits gaining premiums to be the.property of the Govern- ment, with liberty to alter them and choose their own builder.
The picture representing "the meeting of the first Reformed Parlia- ment " by Sir George Hayter, for which a grant of 26001. was made, has bemplaced in the Committee Room of the House of Commons, No 9.
It appears that the Royal Academy are not, after all, so unanimously satisfied with Mr. Cowper's decision to alter the National Gallery acaorffing to the plan which we have already described. Some members of the Cou cil are most anxious, it is said, that the Academy should erect a building of their own upon a site granted by Government.
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