y funds necessary to such an object, which, but for
these grand schemes, would be likely to come into their hands. One has
but to observe the motives which induce persons to subscribe to an
Art-Union, to be convinced that the great majority do so for the sake of
self-aggrandizement, that is, to have a chance of getting the works of
our best artists for a mere tithe of their value, or in the language of
the advertisements, "of obtaining a valuable return, for a small
investment;" as they would buy any other lottery tickets: to make the
most out of their money. But there are many who subscribe from nobler
motives--real lovers of art, whose only object is to lend a helping hand
to its interests, and to show a generous sympathy in the struggles and
self-denying endeavors of all whose souls are so wrapt up in its pursuit
that they scarcely arrive at the knowledge requisite to a charge of
their own pecuniary and worldly affairs. This latter class of
subscribers believe they are gratifying this genuine love of the
beautiful and good, when they give annually their five dollars to an
institution chartered for the express design of protecting and
cherishing the interests of art, and of enlarging the field of its
labors and usefulness among the people. These genuine _patrons_ give,
without a hope or thought of drawing a prize, or receiving in any shape
a return for their subscriptions. Did they reflect upon, or know, that
these funds were worse than misapplied, they would withhold them, and
seek in some other way to make a proper appropriation of them.

We have said that these Art-Unions prevent artists from taking any steps
to provide the means of instruction for those who need and seek it. As
an illustration of this we may mention the present state of the
_National Academy of Design_. It is, and has been for two or three
years, quite prostrate for want of funds; its schools have been closed,
and without assistance it must soon die. A few years ago it was in a
flourishing state, and offered the advantages of study which their fine
collection of casts from the best antique statues, and a small but well
selected and growing library could afford to students. Such have been
the results of Art-Unions upon schools of art everywhere. To be sure the
members of the National Academy are not entirely free from censure in
this matter, for many of them, smitten with the "Union" mania, gave it
their countenance, and even something more substant