FINE ARTS.
WE chanced to see the other day a cabinet-picture of " Shylock after the Trial," by ALEXANDER CHRISTIE ; which, as the first work of a painter almost self-taught, is of such high promise that it deserves mention, and justifies his relinquishment of an uncongenial profession for-the fascinating but difficult pursuit of art. The subject is too try- ing for a beginner ; but its choice is proof of daring. The interest centres in the look of Shylock. SHAKSPEARE has given us no clue to the precise expression of the Jew's face at that moment; though we may suppose a stupor of despair and baffled revenge clouded his visage. The artist has, with warrantable licence, represented him sustained by the thirst for revenge, which, though hopeless, is the passion on which Shylock would fall back for support. The scene of the trial in the background is an historical picture in miniature. The painting is ela- borate and forcible, and rich in tone.
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