Our readers may recall the very interesting telegram published some little time ago recording the gift to the Victoria and Albert Museum of the throne of the Emperor Chien Lung. Additional particulars of the throne are contained in "The Times," and are well worth recording here. The throne, it is reported, was one of a pair formerly in the Palace of Nanhaidze, near Peking, and its companion is believed to be now in the possession of the President of the Chinese Republic. It was made in the Imperial lacquer factory maintained by Chien Lung for his personal use. With the exception of the seat, which is of fine flat red lacquer with floral decoration, it is executed throughout in carved lacquer of superb red, but with layers also of green in two shades, brown, and yellow. The decoration is symbolical throughout of Good Fortune, Longevity, Married Felicity, and other matters of good omen, the contre panel of the back having, for its chief feature, the elephant bear a vase of jewels—a rebus signifying "Peace reigns in the North." The throne is 3ft. liin. in height, 4ft. lin. in width, and 3ft. in depth; and the seat is still furnished with its original cushion of fine old brocade. With this gift the name of Mr. George Swift Will ever be associated, for when the throne was offered for sale the Museum was not in a financial po: 1 to make the purchase, Thereupon Mr. Swift came forward and has secured a very great treasure for the nation.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.