NATIONAL ART GALLERY AND DOMINION MUSEUM REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 1950

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1950 Session I, H-21

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1950 NEW ZEALAND

NATIONAL ART GALLERY AND DOMINION MUSEUM REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 1950

Presented to Both Houses of the General Assembly Pursuant to Section 11 (2) of the National Art Gallery and Dominion Museum Amendment Act, 1936

Sir, — 20th September, 1950. I have the honour, by direction of the Board of Trustees, to submit to you herewith, pursuant to section 11 of the National Art Gallery and Dominion Museum Amendment Act, 1936, their report for the year ended 31st March, 1950, together with a copy of their accounts for the year certified by the Audit Office. I have, &c., F. H. Bass, Secretary. The Hon. W. A. Bodkin, Minister of Internal Affairs, Wellington.

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BOARD OF TRUSTEES Chairman : The Prime Minister, the Right Hon. S. G. Holland, P. 0., M.P. Deputy Chairmen— The Mayor of Wellington (Sir William Appleton). The Minister of Internal Affairs (Hon. W. A. Bodkin, M.P.). Chairman of the Finance Committee (D. A. Ewen, Esq., 0.8. E.). Members — Major-General Sir Howard K. Kippenberger, K.8.E., C.8., D.5.0., E.D. Ernest W. Hunt, Esq., J.P., F.C.A. (Aust.), F.C.I.S. (Eng.). The Under-Secretary of Internal Affairs (A. G. Harper, Esq.). Representative of the Maori Race : (Vacant). Royal Society of New Zealand— Dr. P. Marshall, M.A., D.Sc., F.G.S., F.R.G.S., F.R.S.N.Z. Professor W. P. Evans, M.A., Ph.D., F.R.S.N.Z. Wellington Harbour Board— W. H. Price, Esq. (Chairman). W. L. Fitzherbert, Esq. New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts — D. A. Ewen, Esq., 0.8. E. G. G. Gibbes Watson, Esq., M.A., LL.B. Wellington Branch of the New Zealand Institute of Architects : S. W. Fearn, Esq., A.R.1.8.A., F.N.Z.I.A. Wellington City Council: Councillor L. T. Jacobsen. Chairman of the Wellington War Memorial Carillon Society : E. E. Muir, Esq. Local Bodies' Representative: The Mayor of the City of Lower Hutt (W. C. Gregory, Esq.). Secretary : F. H. Bass, Esq., F.P.A.N.Z., Chartered Secretary. Treasurer : J. R. Deal, Esq. Building and Finance Committee: D. A. Ewen, Esq., 0.8. E., (Chairman), Sir William Appleton, Messrs. S. W. Fearn, W. H. Price, A. G. Harper, E. W. Hunt, W. L. Fitzherbert, and L. T. Jacobsen. ANNUAL REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 1950 The report for the year ended 31st March, 1950, is presented herewith. The Trustees met on two occasions and the Building and Finance Committee held three meetings. Board of Trustees Obituary Lt.-Col. A. Cowles. —The death took place on 18th February, 1950, of Lt.-Col. A. Cowles, who was a member of the Board of Trustees for a period of lime years from 13fh August, 1934, to 16th July, 1943, and Chairman of the Carillon Management Committee. The Board records its appreciation of the valuable services rendered by the deceased during his period of office. Sir Apirana Ngata, Kt.—Since the close of the year the Board has suffered a serious loss by the death on 14th July of Sir Apirana Ngata, Kt., who served on the Board for a period of nearly twelve years as Representative of the Maori Race. The Board records its full appreciation of the services rendered by Sir Apirana, particularly in regard to the Maori section of the Dominion Museum.

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Retirements Following upon the change of Government the Right Hon. Peter Fraser and the Hon. W. E. Parry automatically retired from the Board of Trustees, as they were members in a representative capacity as Prime Minister and Minister of Internal Affairs respectively. Mr. Parry assumed office in November, 1935, and Mr. Fraser in March, 1940, following the death of the Right Hon. M. J. Savage. Both Mr. Fraser and Mr. Parry gave active support to the activities of the Museum, Art Gallery, and Carillon. In particular, mention is made of the assistance rendered oil the occasion of the Centennial Art Exhibition in 1940, the acquisition of some valuable pictures for the Art Gallery, and the purchase by the Government of the valuable Oldman Collection of Polynesian and Maori artifacts for exhibition in the Dominion Museum and other museums in New Zealand. Following the cessation of occupation of the Art Gallery and Museum building by part of the Defence Department, support was also given to the work of restoration of the Art Gallery and Museum. Mr. Fraser took a particular interest in the Art Gallery and took part in many of the functions held in the Gallery. The Board records its full appreciation of the very valuable services rendered by Mr. Fraser and Mr. Parry during their period of office. New Members The Right Hon. S. G. Holland and the Hon. W. A. Bodkin became members of the Board of Trustees in November, 1949, by virtue of their positions as Prime Minister and Minister of Internal Affairs respectively. Sir Howard Kippenberger was appointed a member of the Board by the Government on 19th October, 1949. Honour of Knighthood The Honour of Knight Bachelor was conferred upon Sir William Appleton (Mayor of Wellington) by His Majesty the King in June, 1950, and the congratulations of the Board were extended to him. General The reports of the three Management Committees are attached hereto. The Art Gallery and Museum have carried on normal activities during the year, and the large attendance of the public, particularly at week-ends, is evidence of the wide interest in the exhibitions of pictures and exhibits. The Museum was reopened to the general public on 29th September, 1949. His Excellency the Governor-General performed the opening ceremony, and the rededication of the meeting-house in the Maori Hall was marked by a special ceremony organized by the Hon. E. T. Tirikatene and a group of Maori assistants. Educational work has been actively carried on by both the Art Gallery and Museum staffs. The Lecture Hall has been used for addresses and for the exhibition of educational films. Collections of pictures and exhibits have been circulated amongst schools, and special exhibitions have been arranged in the Wellington and surrounding districts and addresses on art have also been given by the Director of the Art Gallery in Wellington and in country districts. Talks on art have also been broadcasted by Station 2YA. The national collections in the Art Gallery and Museum have been enriched by many gifts, bequests, and purchases. The T. G. Macarthy Trust Board has again made a grant of £2OO for purchase of pictures and for educational purposes. The Board records its grateful thanks to the various donors and to other supporters of the Art Gallery and Museum. ' The Government has established an art scholarship of an annual value of £5OO per annum to be awarded each year by the National Art Gallery for three years' study abroad.

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Recitals on the Carillon have been regularly carried out by Mr. Selwyn Baker, official carillonist, who took up his appointment on 15th November, 1949, after a twoyear qualifying period abroad. Proposals for the provision of additional bells and erection of memorial halls to complete the National War Memorial are still under consideration by the Government. A forte cochere is being erected on the east side of the main building and this will prove a useful feature as it will provide protection for visitors entering the building during inclement weather. A store has also been erected in the basement for storage of pictures not on exhibit. The staff of the Art Gallery and Museum have carried out their duties in an efficient manner. Mr. R. D. Gore, Secretary of the Art Gallery Committee of Management and of the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts, resigned his position in March last, and Mr. C. M. Thompson was appointed to the joint positions. Following upon the full reopening of the Art Gallery and Museum, the cost of operation has been increased by the engagement of the necessary attendants and cleaning staff and by a general increase in remuneration of staff and an increase in other necessary expenditure. The additional costs have been met by an increase in the Government grant. Rising costs have necessitated an application to the Government for a further increase in the grant for the current year. The Board records its appreciation of the financial support received from the Government, and continued financial contributions received from the Wellington City Council, Wellington Harbour Board, and other local bodies in the Wellington District; also of assistance received from the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts, the Royal Society of New Zealand, the Wellington War Memorial Carillon Society, and others ; and also extends its thanks to the press for valuable publicity. The annual balance-sheet and accounts are appended hereto. In addition to the restoration work carried out by the Government, it has been necessary to incur expenditure on purchase of equipment and on work not covered by the Government contract. The cost has been met from the Repairs, Renewals, and Extension Fund. S. G. Holland, Chairman. F. H. Bass, Secretary. 20th September, 1950. ANNUAL REPORT OF THE DOMINION MUSEUM MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 1950 Museum Management Committee Messrs. W. H. Price (Chairman), W. L. Fitzherbert, R. A. McLennan, H. C. McQueen ; Drs. P. Marshall, C. G. Morice, E. Beaglehole, and H. B. Fell (replacing Dr. L. R. Richardson, on leave of absence). The resignation of Dr. H. H. Allan was received at the end of the year. The Committee The Committee met seven times during the year. Staff Resignations Miss M. Lawson, Assistant Education Officer; Mrs. E. C. Ponton, Librarian; Miss S, Baker, Art Assistant; Miss N. Fitchett, Art Assistant.

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Appointments Miss M. Stephenson, Assistant Education Officer; Miss M. Thome, Librarian; Mrs. J. M. Price, Clerical Assistant and Typist; Mr. G. C. Shaw, Geologist; Mr. C. Hale, Photographer ; Mr. G. White. Junior General Assistant. Obituary It is with regret that we record the death in a traffic accident, on 3rd June, 1949, of Mr. B. W. Hall, Museum Photographer. Mr. Hall had been a member of the staff since 21st February, 1944, and his professional efficiency and cheerful personality alike are greatly missed. Accessions Gift accessions became more numerous after the reopening of the building to the public. Of 164 entries in the register, details of some are given in the sectional reports. Exhibition Halls The contractors having completed the work of restoration and decoration at the end of March, 1949, the installation of exhibits was commenced immediately. Originally, the large island cases were designed to stand in the centre of the halls, and the decision to use them at the sides to form " bays " made the setting-up of exhibits more difficult, the case-doors being too close to the masonry pillars. However, the advantages of bays seemed to warrant the experiment and to allow of some grouping of subjects and segregation of related exhibits, as far as the existing design of the building will permit. The transfer on loan to the Canterbury Museum of one large Maori carved storehouse and a war canoe made it possible to display all the Maori material in one hall and vestibule. The remaining canoes and carved houses are grouped at either end flanking the meeting-house, and the wall cases are fitted with explanatory displays of such topics as Polynesian migrations, stone-implement manufacture, fishing, agriculture, cooking, housing, ornament, clothing, and decorative arts. Many of the spectacular and artistic objects from the W. 0. Oldman Collection, of which the Dominion Museum retains a first choice in Maori material, are displayed in island cases near the entrance. Principal display in foreign ethnology is devoted to the islands of the Pacific and bordering countries, with smaller exhibits from India, Africa, and ancient Mediterranean lands. The plan of display throughout in ethnology owes much to the experience of the Education Officer and his assistant; and the professional staff agree that the needs of the school service provide sound criteria for methods of presentation suitable for the general public. European arts and crafts occupy the next section, followed by miscellaneous technology, weapons, coins, and stamps. Ceramic collections are displayed in the bay of the east wing, and relics of New Zealand history are along the east wall. Period furniture of the Elgar Bequest has been temporarily arranged in three bays, pending the construction of three period rooms in accordance with the terms of the bequest. JFrom this point natural history exhibits are arranged in sequence commencing with mammals and followed by botany and geology. In all these sections much of the display is formal and provisional until special exhibits can be prepared. All members of the staff were called on for special effort throughout the six months before the opening, and we wish to record appreciation of their response. Particular mention may be made of the voluntary assistance given by Mr. L. Stannard and Miss M. Lawson. Mr. S. .Northcote Bade gave honorary assistance in arranging ceramic displays.

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Reopening of Museum The ceremony of reopening the Museum was performed by His Excellency the Governor-General, Sir Bernard Freyberg, Y.C., G.C.M.G., K.C.8., D.5.0., on the evening of 29th September, 1949. Other addresses were given by the Right Hon. the Prime Minister, Mr. P. Fraser ; His Worship the Mayor of Wellington, Mr. W. Appleton ; and the Chairman of the Management Committee, Mr. W. H. Price. These proceedings were followed by a ceremony of address to the Maori Meeting-house performed by the Hon. E. T. Tirikatene, M.P. Ethnological Section The registration and checking of the Oldman Collection was completed at the end of the year. At the request of the Government the Art Galleries and Museums Association of New Zealand appointed a committee to arrange for the distribution of material to the other main museums. Mr. W. J. Phillipps represented the Dominion Museum and the Director was appointed Chairman. Several small collections of Maori antiquities were purchased and some presented, including Waikato material from Mr. R. J. Corbett forwarded through the High Commissioner in London. Following field-work at the Wairau Bar, in which Mr. Phillipps and Mr. T. Barrow were associated with the Director of the Canterbury Museum, Mr. R. S. Duff, important collections of Moa-hunter material then excavated were presented by the Canterbury Museum. As more than half the year was occupied in the preparation of displays, reference collections received only routine attention, although it was possible to improve storage arrangements in a newly-excavated basement. After the reconditioning of our own Maori-carved exhibits the services of the carver, Mr. C. Tuarau, were made available to the Canterbury Museum for the assembly of the war canoe, Te HeJce Rangatira, which, with a large pataka, had been transferred on loan to that institution. Short papers were published, as follows : " A Maori God-stick in the Dominion Museum," by W. J. Phillipps. Journ. Polyn. Soc., Vol. 58, No. 3. " An Old Canoe-prow," by W. J. Phillipps, J. P. S., Vol. 58, No. 3. Historical and Technological Sections Following the policy of accepting and, where possible, exhibiting " by-gones " of value, the Museum has acquired, with the generous aid of the Wellington Harbour Board, a large mahogany bed and canopy formerly in a home of Sir George Grey. A landau in good order was presented by its owner, Mr. W. A. Read. Machines, tools, and instruments of early pattern also have been obtained by gift or at nominal cost, and the growth of these collections has caused the committee to discuss future policy. The Director has recommended that all important material should be accepted, while at the same time supporting the proposals being discussed in the Hutt Valley for the establishment of a technological museum. If this does not lead to early action the alternative must be an extension of exhibition space in the Dominion Museum or the bulk storage and deterioration of valuable machines and models. Mr. S. Northcote Bade has continued to give valued honorary assistance and advice in all matters relating to period furniture and china. Vertebrate Zoology Section Several stranded whales were examined and three fur-seal skins prepared. Polecats of the form found ferral in New Zealand have been kept for breeding experiment and observation. A valuable addition of foreign mammals was a gift; of mounted small mammals and game-animal heads from Africa by Mr. P. R. W. McKergow.

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Bird collections of skins, eggs, and skeletons have had the following noteworthy additions : One complete skeleton of Notornis from Takahe Valley (Department of Internal Affairs). Mounted New Zealand birds comprising the greater part of the collection formerly in the Hawke's Bay Museum, Napier. Field-work in ornithology consisted of visits by the Director to sanctuary localities in Southland, Westland, and Marlborough respectively, for study of the surviving populations of Notornis, white heron, and king shag. Preservable material from the Takahe Valley collected by other official parties also has been sent to the Dominion Museum. A bird-ringing scheme organized by the Ornithological Society of New Zealand will in future have its rings returned to and records kept in the Museum. New exhibits have included a bay illustrating the common birds of Wellington. In a reorganization of basement storage Mr. Phillipps checked and rearranged the spirit collection of fishes. The Marine Department and several commercial fishermen have continued to supply the Museum with much-needed specimens of fish. Those new to the collection, of which casts have been prepared for exhibition, are : Opah (Lampris luna), Orowaiti. Carpet Shark, Awanui. Ray's Bream from Chatham Islands. Mr. C. McCann continued his study of New Zealand lizards and completed the manuscript of a systematic revision, with illustrations. Papers and booklets published dealing with vertebrate zoology were — " The Moas of New Zealand and Australia," by W. R. B. Oliver. Dominion Museum Bulletin No. 15. " Notornis Rediscovered," by R. A. Falla. Emu, Vol. 48, Pt. 4, May, 1949, Melbourne. " Birds of the Solanders," by R. A. Falla. N.Z. Bird Notes, Vol. 3, No. 2. " Bird Resources," by R. A. Falla. United Nations Scientific Conference on the Utilization of Natural Resources. "Birds of Martins Bay, 1876-81," by W. J. Phillipps. N.Z. Science Congress Paper, 1947. " Native Fishes of New Zealand," by W. J. Phillipps. (A. H. and A. W. Reed.) " Birds," a Primary School Bulletin, by R. A. Falla. (Education Department.) Entomological Section The vacancy caused by the resignation of Dr. J. T. Salmon had, unfortunately, not been filled by the end of the year. There were few applications, and an applicant selected finally declined the position. In the circumstances routine supervision of collections, visitors, and inquiries has been maintained by Mr. R. K. Dell, while Mr. C. J. Lindsay mounted and incorporated a small amount of new material. Display cases were renovated and two new ones prepared by Miss N. Fitchett from Dr. Salmon's notes and some advice from Dr. M. Laird. " A Revision of N.Z. Wetas," by Dr. J. T. Salmon, was published as Dominion Museum Records in Entomology, Vol. 1, No. 8. CONCHOLOGY AND MARINE INVERTEBRATE SECTION The display material provided in this section has been entirely new, and Mr. Dell had the assistance of Miss S. Baker in preparing most of the exhibits. Several wax models were made, as, required, by Miss V. M. Norman.

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After the reopening of the Museum galleries, attention was given to improvedstorage for study collections. In addition to molluscan material it has been necessary to regroup the Museum's important collections of New Zealand tertiary fossils which now are readily accessible for the first time. New collections from New Zealand and abroad have been received and registered, generous donations being acknowledged from Mr. A. C. O'Connor, Miss M. K. Mestayer, Mr. A. S. Yoss. Requests for identification of specimens, normally numerous in this section, have increased since the reopening of the building, and Mr. Dell has had to deal with insects and terrestrial arthropods in addition. Papers published—(l) " Notes on the Taxonomy and Distribution of some New Zealand Mollusca with Description of Four New Species," by R. K. Dell. Dominion Museum Records in Zoology, Vol. 1, Nos, 3-6. (2) " A Tertiary Molluscan Fauna from Waikowhai, Manukau Harbour, Auckland," by R. K. Dell. Dominion Museum Records in Zoology, Vol. 1, No. 4. (3) " The Molluscan Genus Yenustas in New Zealand Waters," by R. K. Dell. Dominion Museum Records in Zoology, Yol. 1, No. 5. (4) " Two New Species of Land Snails from the Snares Islands," by R K. Dell. Dominion Museum Records in Zoology, Yol. 1, No. 6. (5) " A Note on the Feeding-habits of the Paryphantidse (Mollusca) with special Reference to Cannibalism in Rhytida," by R. K. Dell. New Zealand Science Review, Yol. 7, No. 6. Botanical Section Much of the botanical display in the reopened gallery is new, and again the main responsibility of the Assistant Botanist was the preparation of exhibits, in which she was assisted by Miss N. Fitchett. Work on the herbarium continued, and several considerable field collections were preserved and incorporated. These included plants from Te Anau (J. Sorensen and E. G. Turbott), Caswell Sound (W. R. B. Oliver), Arthur's Pass (A. Lush), and others resulting from Museum collecting. Comprehensive herbarium collections also were presented by the National Museum of Canada and by Dr. Erling Christofersen (from Tristan da Cunha). In order to deal more effectively with fresh material, aluminium drying-sheets were obtained, and the necessary slow-heating oven was installed. Miss Lush also took over part of the work of the National History Club, and gave a series of lectures, including one to advanced students at Victoria College. The usual routine of care of collections was maintained, including complete fumigation, and a number of visiting botanists accommodated for varying periods in the herbarium. Geological Section Mr. G. C. Shaw was appointed Assistant Geologist and took up his duties on 4th January, 1950. He was engaged on some revision of the exhibits and the organization of reference collections. Rock and mineral collections were examined and catalogued and- some consultation held with Dr. P. Marshall regarding the large mineral collection which was transferred as a gift to the museum in February. This important accession has greatly strengthened the geological section. Taxidermy, Modelling, and Exhibition In the six months prior to the reopening expectionally heavy demands were made on staff members in these sections. The Management Committee desires to congratulate the display team consisting of Misses V. M. Norman, H. Turnbull, S. Baker, N. Fitchett, and Messrs. C. J. Lindsay, C. McCann, and H. Allen, who not only carried out planned displays but were individually responsible for the layout and plan of some cases.

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Since the reopening Miss Norman has experimented successfully with new plastics and processes. Mr. Lindsay prepared a number of casts and mounts, and Mr. McCann prepared backgrounds for four habitat groups. Miss Turnbull has been engaged in arrears of labelling and refitting of school cases and aquarium tanks. Publication: " The Use of Beeswax," by Y. M. Norman. Dominion Museum Handbook, No. 2. Photographic Section The vacancy caused by the death of Mr. B. W. Hall was filled by the appointment of Mr. C. Hale. Much of the work is routine photography of specimens, and the supply of prints for use in any related activity beyond the Museum. The photographer also is responsible for the cataloguing and filing of all negatives, including collections acquired. Lantern slides also are made as required, and 16 mm. cine-films in colour were made during field trips by the Director to Takahe Yalley (Notornis), Okarito Sanctuary (white herons), and the White Rocks (king shag). Education Section From the date of reopening full instructional work with visiting school classes was resumed under the direction of the Education Officer, Mr. L. Stannard, and his assistant Miss M. Stephenson. The range of lessons offered was based on the new displays and in the short period under review, about sixteen working-weeks, 8,500 pupils of urban schools, primary and secondary, public and private, attended for whole afternoon or whole morning sessions. In addition, groups from country schools were taken, and special use was made of the lecture hall for twelve or more Wednesday afternoons by the dispersed South Wellington Intermediate School. This was for the purpose of general assembly and film screenings. Groups of loan cases still are available in the Nelson, Hawke's Bay, and Pahiatua districts. Although no new cases have been prepared, the demand still is keen. The further development of such work calls for the appointment of an arts and crafts specialist teacher. Good use was made of cases illustrating New Zealand subjects by the staff of the Reception Training Centre at Pahiatua, where displaced persons spend the first few weeks of their residence in this country. Four groups of student teachers were given training in school-service work, and a new natural history club commenced for secondary school pupils, of whom about thirty have been attending regularly. Identification of specimens for pupils and teachers has been undertaken regularly. Library Most of the additions during the year have been of current periodicals and back numbers, and only a few books have been purchased. Main expense has again been for binding. The increased demands of inter-library loan and of overseas requests for exchanges have added greatly to the routine work. Public Attendances In the quarter ending 31st December, 1949, about 32,000 visitors were recorded, •and throughout the summer holiday period daily attendance was about 500. A satisfactory rota of attendance for supervision of the exhibition halls has been arranged by the Custodian, Mr. G. J. Butcher, whose co-operation in other ways also is acknowledged. W. H. Price, Chairman. R. A. Falla, Director.

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT OF THE NATIONAL ART GALLERY FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 1950 Committee of Management of the National Art Gallery Mr. G, G. Gibbes Watson, M.A., LL.B. (Chairman); Messrs. Stanley W. Fearn, A.R.1.8A.; W. S. Wauchop, M.A. ; Archibald F. Nicoll, 0.8. E.; Cedric Savage; Nugent H. Welch, 0.8. E. ; Robert N. Field, A.R.C.A. ; H. Webster Nash, M.8., F.R.C.S.E. Director : S. B. Maclennan, A.R.C.A. Secretary : R. D. Gore. Leave of Absence of Chairman The Chairman, Mr. G. G. Gibbes Watson, was granted leave of absence from March, 1950, until his return to New Zealand from England. Members expressed their appreciation of Mr, Watson's services in the past and expressed their best wishes to Mr. and Mrs. Watson for a pleasant trip abroad and a safe return. Meetings Four meetings of the gallery were held during the year. Acquisitions The following is a list of works acquired : Gifts—"A Bromley Farm " (water-colour by W. S. Wauchop, M.A.), "Pen Drawing with Venus" (pen and water-colour by Bare (Miss Helen Crabb)), " The Little Vapour Vagrant " (water-colour by Nugent Welch, 0.8. E.), " Old Keta " (oil painting by Russell Clark), " Brunette " (oil painting by A. Lois White), " The Torrent " (water-colour by Cedric Savage), " Waikanae " (water-colour by Stewart Maclennan, A.R.C.A.), Presented by the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts. " Portrait " (pastel by James Nairn), presented by Mrs. C. L. Sanders on behalf of the widow and daughters of the artist. Five sketches by Van der Velden, presented by E. B. Lattey, Esq. Eighteen paintings by British war artists—1. " F/Lt. Lloyd Watt Coleman, D.F.C." (pastel by Eric Kennington), 2. " Air Vice Marshal K. R. Park, M.C." (oil painting by John Mansbridge), 3. " Corporal Knight, D.F.M." (chalk drawing by Cuthbert Orde), 4. " H.M.N.Z.S. ' Achilles ' at the Battle of the River Plate " (watercolour by Frank Norton), 5. " Wing Commander C. E. Kay" (oil-painting by Sir Oswald Birley), 6. " Wing Commander W. M. Buckley " (oil painting by Sir Oswald Birley), 7. "B. E. Bennett, D.S.M." (Stoker 1/c N.Z.D.), and " P. E. Le Gros " (Stoker 1/c, N.Z.D.), (pastel by William Dring), 8. " Gun Drill " (oil painting by Duncan Grant), 9. " St. Anne's, Soho " (water-colour by R. V. Pitchforth), 10. " Twin Brothers from New Zealand " (pencil drawing by Roger Furse),

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11. " London By-Pass During an Air Raid " (wash drawing by Feliks Topolski), 12. " Coastal Defences " (water-colour by Eric Ravilious), 13. " Pilot Officer, M. J. Herrick, D.F.C." (pastel by Eric Kennington), 14. " The ' British Chancellor ' in Dry Dock " (oil painting by Harry Morley, R.A.), 15. " Casualty No. 1 " (oil painting by L. Duffy), 16. " Fitting Recruits with Clothing" (water-colour by Anthony Gross), 17. " Cook House " (water-colour by Anthony Gross), 18. " Squad Parading on Square " (water-colour by Anthony Gross), Presented by the New Zealand Government. Purchases—- " Cromwell Gorge " (oil painting by Robert Johnston). " Head of a Maori Woman " (oil painting by Goldie). " The Harbour, Salonika " (oil painting by Peter Mclntyre). " Broadway Bar " (water-colour by William Winter). " Meteor " (sculpture in New Zealand marble by R. N. Field, A.R.C.A.). " Sir Joshua Reynolds " (statuette in bronze by Sir Alfred Drury, R.A.). Thirteen reproductions of paintings by Old Masters and Modern paintings for the Educational Section. Library One hundred and twenty books were added to the Reference Library during the year. Exhibitions The following exhibitions were held during the year : (a) Wakefield Collection (British Council), (b) Early British Water-colours (Empire Art Loan Exhibitions Society), (c) Historical Water-colours by Admiral Oliver (lent by C. G. S. Oliver, Esq.), (d) Canadian Water-colours, (Held in the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts' Gallery by courtesy of the Council of the Academy). (e) Paintings by Charles Hopkinson (contemporary American) lent by Alfred Rive, Esq. (Gallery S). (/) Paintings by British War Artists (Gallery S). (g) Reproductions representing the Post-Impressionist School (Gallery S). (h) School Prints (Galleries 0 and P). Travelling Scholarship in Art During the year the Government granted a travelling scholarship to be administered by the Management Committee of the Gallery. The Scholarship, which is valued at £5OO per annum, will be offered annually and will be awarded to New Zealand art students who show outstanding ability to enable them to undertake three years' advanced study at an approved institution overseas. The scholarship marks an important step in cultural development in New Zealand. Educational Sets of reproductions illustrating the history of art have been circulated to art galleries and post-primary schools. Groups of students from secondary schools have been invited to the Gallery to attend illustrated lectures. Evening talks for adults at

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the Gallery have been well attended. Talks on art have been given to members of the Academy, the Junior Chamber of Commerce, Karori West Parents' Association, the Architectural Centre, the Library Association, and similar bodies. Staff Resignations.—Mr. R. D. Gore, Secretary ; Mrs. J. Eaves, Typist. Appointment.—Mrs. B. E. Flockton was appointed to the office staff. Pbess The Committee desires to record appreciation of the valuable support and publicity given by the press. G. G. Gibbes Watson, Chairman. S. B. Maclennan, Director. WAR MEMORIAL CARILLON: REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 1950 The Carillon Management Committee has much pleasure in reporting that during the year the Carillon has been fully restored to its former prestige when the late Miss Gladys Watkins was the official Carillonist. This has been due to the excellent condition in which the mechanism has been kept by the maintenance contractors, Messrs. N. W. Thomas and Co., and to the brilliant playing by the new official Carillonist, Mr. Selwyn Baker, who graduated with distinction at the Carillon School, Malines, Belgium, after eighteen months' training, and who took up his duties on 15th November last. The recitals in consequence have attracted much larger audiences around the tower, particularly on Sunday afternoons, and have been enjoyed by still larger numbers of people who reside in the neighbourhood and on the surrounding hills. It must be emphasized, however, that the best places in which to hear the Carillon are within 200 yards of the tower and in chosen spots in the vicinity which are free from the intrusion of extraneous sound. In his playing Mr. Baker has introduced with fine effects the new technique developed in Belgium in the use of the smaller bells. This is specially distinguishable in the rendering of arpeggio passages which are so freely included in the most notable compositions for bells by master carillonists. Having taken up his duties, Mr. Baker reported on the condition of the Carillon as follows : " May I take this opportunity of expressing much satisfaction concerning the mechanical condition of the expressive keyboard of the Carillon. All joints and connections appear to be in excellent condition, and in many instances superior to any instrument on which I played overseas. Much credit is due to the technicians from Messrs. N. W. Thomas and Co., Ltd., for their maintenance work." Regarding the tonal qualities of the bells, Mr. Baker reported : "I have much pleasure in reporting that the tonality of the bells of the National War Memorial Carillon is exceptionally fine, both in the upper and lower registers. Such a combination of tone is rarely found in both registers. Most carillons excel in one or other of the registers, but with the Wellington instrument the tuning and tonality is good throughout. May I state that my opinion is based on the fact that I have been privileged to play upon many carillons in Belgium, Holland, the United States, and Canada, and I have also examined bells during the tuning process at various foundries."

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In expressing appreciation of this satisfactory state of affairs, the Management Committee at the same time wishes to acknowledge the efficient service performed by Mr. John Randal, the official operator during the past six years, in giving recitals on the carillon by means of the automatic playing apparatus, in perfecting the paper band rolls and adding new ones, and, when necessary, in using the hand clavier. Thereby he enabled the Carillon to fulfil its role as a living war memorial, rendering the old folk songs and airs which mean so much in maintaining the traditions of our race. The Management Committee desires to emphasize that the interior of the National War Memorial tower, after eighteen years, still remains in an unfinished state, and that the erection of the originally promised Hall of Memories has yet to be put in hand. It is gratifying, nevertheless, to learn that the proposals it has advanced for the completion of the memorial so that it will be fully representative for both the First and the Second World Wars are now receiving consideration, and trusts that an early decision will be arrived at. In the meantime the Committee strongly recommends the replacement of the present iron ladderways giving access to the various chambers by safer staircases, and the appointment of a permanent caretaker so that visitors may be admitted to the tower and the premises may be cleaned daily and kept in proper order. Ernest E. Muir, Chairman. John Gr. Osborne, Hon. Secretary. 21st September, 1950. TREASURER'S ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST MARCH, 1950 The Chairman, I beg to submit the following financial statements relating to the year ended 31st March, 1950: (1) Receipts and Payments Account. (2) Income and Expenditure Account. (3) Balance-sheet. J. R. Deal, Treasurer. 25th July, 1950.

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Receipts and Payments Account for the Year ended 31st March, 1950

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(Figures to nearest pound) Receipts. 1948 -50. 1948-49. Payments. 1949-50. 1948-49. £ £ £ £ £ £ Balance at beginning of period — Advertising 56 49 Cash in bank and in hand 2,487 Audit fees 18 18 Imprest accounts 24 Carillon : Miscellaneous payments 110 Investments — Cleaning 249 107 Deposit with Public Trustee 11,496 Exhibitions 552 182 National Savings Account 2,263 Freight and cartage 190 125 New Zealand Government stock 7,000 Fuel, light, power, and water 746 327 Fixed Deposit: Bank of New Zealand 3,000 Insurances 298 237 Deposit: Post Office Savings-bank.. 591 Miscellaneous 21 26,861 29,616 Office expenses 30 38 Government grants for maintenance 21,000 13,500 Photographic supplies 175 141 Interest on investments 704 693 Postages, telegrams, and toll calls Printing and stationery 109 85 Local bodies : Contribution for mainten- •• 2,880 2,905 540 423 ance Rent for Art Gallery temporary premises 970 Exhibitions 312 Rental for occupation of portion of ' 83 Macarthy Trust grant 200 200 building (refund) Beauchamp Trust 319 633 Repairs and maintenance : Buildings and 1,335 3,071 Elgar Legacy 25 25 equipment Macgregor Legacy 100 Restoration of building, &c. 65 123 Wellington Harbour Board: Towards il6 288 Salaries 18,639 10,531 purchase of Museum exhibit Specimens and pictures, preparation of .. 687 549 Miscellaneous 9 29 Subscriptions to societies 9 14 New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts : 225 225 Telephones and fire-alarms 216 92 Contribution towards salary, &c. Transferring Art Gallery location 30 Rental for occupation of portion of 83 1,083 Travelling allowances and expenses 290 385 building Unauthorized expenditure 1 Sale surplus equipment 5 Uniforms, overalls, &c. 191 *23 Hire of Lecture Hall. . ' 23 8 Centennial Art Exhibition : Miscellaneous • • 115 Transferring Art Gallery location 30 Capital : Buildings Cinematograph equipment ExhibitsArt Gallery Museum 506 404 203 2,262 108 703 364

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| i I Furnishings . . . . .. . . 319 128 Library . . . . . . .. .. 929 323 Mechanical applicances .. . . . . 15 . I Miscellaneous equipment . . . . . . 148 361 Photographic apparatus .. .. . . 34 100 Publications: Stock .. .. . . 579 113 Scientific apparatus .. . . . . 84 226 Tools .. .. . . .. . . 198 16 Balance at end of period — Cash in hand and in bank .. .. 1,018 Imprest accounts .. . . .. 24 Investments — Deposit with Public Trustee .. 11,846 National Savings Account .. 4,375 New Zealand Government stock .. 5,000 Fixed deposit: Bank of New Zealand 2,000 Deposit: Post Office Savings-bank.. 605 24,868 26,861 £52,787 £49,310 £52,787 £49,310

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Income and Expenditure Account for the Year ended 31st March, 1950

(Figures to nearest pound) Expenditure. 1949-50. 1948-49. Income. 1949-50. 1948-49. Advertising Audit fee Carillon : Miscellaneous payments Cleaning Exhibitions Freight and cartage Fuel, light, power, and water Insurances Miscellaneous Office expenses Photographic supplies Postages, telegrams, and toll calls Printing and stationeryRent for Art Gallery temporary premises Repairs and maintenance : Buildings and equipment Salaries Specimens and pictures, preparation of .. Subscriptions to societies Telephones and fire-alarms Travelling allowances and expenses Unauthorized expenditure Uniforms and overalls Balance carried down £ 52 18 ' '253 552 161 748 304 21 33 175 112 534 "433 18,586 689 15 222 279 1 191 1,085 £ 50 18 120 1.05 182 114 319 235 37 141 83 402 970 480 10,540 546 14 86 384 23 2,818 Contributions — New Zealand Government Local bodies — Wellington City Council Wellington Harbour Board Lower Hutt City Council Palmerston North City Council Petone Borough Council Hutt County Council 1,700 500 400 190 50 40 £ 21,000 2,880 312 31 225 16 £ 13,500 2,905 8 225 29 1,000 Exhibitions Hire of Lecture Hall New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts : Contribution towards salaries, &c. Miscellaneous receipts Rental for occupation of portion of building .. £24,464 £17,667 £24,464 £17,667 Capital purchases from revenue Appropriations — Repairs, Renewals, and Extensions Reserve Balance carried forward £ 1,677 175 11 £ 2,078 1,500 84 Balance brought down Accumulated surplus (general) Interest on investments .. Sale of surplus equipment £ 1,085 84 694 £ 2,818 146 693 5 | £1,863 £3,662 £1,863 £3,662 .

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J. R. Deal, Treasurer. The Audit Office having examined the balance-sheet and accompanying accounts required by law to be audited, hereby certifies them to be correct.— J. P. Rutherford, Controller and Auditor-General.

By Authority: R. E. Owen, Government Printer, Wellington. —1950. Price 9d. 1

Approximate Cost of Paper.—Preparation, not given printing (984 copies), £42.

Balance-sheet as at 31st March, 1950

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(Figures to nearest pound) Liabilities. 1949-50. 1948-49. Assets. 1949-50. 1948-49. Capital: Balance at beginning of period Add — Capital purchases from revenue Capital purchases from reserves £ 353,084 1,677 1,113 £ 355,874 513 £ 353,084 463 Land, buildings, improvements — Land Buildings Approach steps and terraces Ground improvements Floodlights £ 30,000 198,283 4,300 6,184 482 £ £ Sundry creditors Special reserves — Art Gallery and Museum Rehabilitation Reserve Art Gallery Special Purposes Reserve Beauchamp Trust Reserve Buildings Fund Reserve Educational Purposes Reserve — Art Gallery Museum Elgar Legacy Reserve Macgregor Legacy Reserve Museum Exhibits Purchase Reserve Picture Purchase Reserve — General Macarthy Trust Repairs, Renewals, and Extensions Reserve Wellington Harbour Board (for purchase of Museum exhibits) Reserve Accumulated Surplus — General .. Tea-rooms 239,249 87,221 29,404 1,003 535 413 11,846 4,375 5,000 2,000 605 24 1,018 238,743 86,614 27,727 569 535 75 11,496 2,263 7,000 3,000 591 24 2,487 3,390 1,050 2,815 301 3,850 2,567 76 100 2,242 1,361 261 8,091 116 Exhibits — Art Gallery Museum 34,661 52,560 Furnishings and equipment — Cinematograph equipment Furnishings Library Mechanical appliances Miscellaneous equipment Photographic apparatus Scientific apparatus .. , .. Tea-room equipment Tools 821 19,834 4,012 222 1,488 1,114 604 695 • 614 26,220 11 75 27,418 84 75 Publications (stock) Restoration of Building Suspense Account .. Sundry debtors Investments — Deposit with Public Trustee National Savings Account New Zealand Government stock Fixed deposit: Bank of New Zealand Deposit: Post Office Savings-bank Imprest Accounts Cash in hand and in bank (less unpresented cheques) 1 £382,693 £381,124 £382,693 £381,124