This book, illustrating many of the most important paintings and sculptures selected for exhibition in the Art Department of the World's Columbian Exposition, — an exposition greater in plan, scope, and achievement than any other that has been undertaken in the whole history of the world, — is prepared for two classes of persons — those who visit the Exposition and those who may not be so fortunate. To those who visit the Exposition, it aims to be, in some sense, a preparation and a guide. It points out works especially worthy of attention and study among the hundreds of masterpieces by the leading artists of the various countries of the world; it designates the sections and galleries where these particular works may be found; it gives a complete, numbered plan of the galleries of the Art Palace, showing the sections respectively occupied by the different nations (so that one may find one's way among them with the greatest ease) and, lastly, it presents data concerning the artists whose works are illustrated, — data which, though necessarily brief, is extremely valuable in usually affording clue to the origin of special characteristics shown in the technique Of their works, thus Often aiding one better to understand and appreciate them. After the Exposition is over, and its magnificent display Of art has become only an in?uence and a memory, the illustrations herein given will serve to freshen fading recollections and will bring back to the mind a measure Of the splendors Of the great event for which the year 1893 — indeed, the nineteenth century itself promises to be especially noted. TO those who may not visit the Exposition, the illustrations Of the art exhibits will convey an idea of them that could be Obtained in no other manner so effective or adequate. Being engraved directly from photographs Of the works, the illustrations are absolutely accurate in detail. They lack only size and color.