Semitic Museum Report.

The Curator of the Semitic Museum, in his annual report to the President, first enumerates the important acquisitions to the Museum during the past year. Of unusual interest are three large models of well known Jewish and Egyptian buildings, the work of the German archaeologist, Dr. Contra Schick, which have been placed on exhibition in the Palestinian room and in the hall of the top floor. One, the copy of the Haramesh-Sherif at Jerusalem, which is the result of actual measurements and careful observation, represents the present condition of the plateau where once stood the ancient Temple of Solomon, and also shows the Mosque of Omar, which, it is believed, occupies the site of Solomon's altar of burnt offerings. Another model is a representation of the Temple of Herod which was destroyed in the year 70 A. D. Although this is an elaborate work, it is, however, largely imaginative, and is no more accurate than the numerous other attempts at the restoration of this building. The third copy is miniature of the Hibrew Tabernacle in the wilderness. Other acquisitions are several small collections of cuneiform tablets and a few specimens of stone vases of the early Babylonian period; also a well preserved inscription of Nebuchadnezzar, of the sixth centuary B. C., on a clay tablet, and several fragments of Cappadocian tablets. There is also a collection of fifteen pieces of antique jewelry in gold and a gift, by Dr. W. M. Woodworth, of 84 copper coins from the Maldive Islands, bearing legends in Arabic Characters. Attention is called to the value of explorations in the Semitic field and to the desirability that the University and the Museum share in his work. A sum of $2,500 has been offered for this purpose, provided that as much more can be secured.

In conclusion Professor Lyon emphasizes more than usual the pressing need of funds with which to carry on more extensive explorations in behalf of the Museum.