Salem always was famous for its collections of natural and historical curiosities, and many of its houses are now well stocked with such things. Among these collections we may mention Mr. Geo. R. Curwen's antique family portraits, china, clothing, and furniture; Mr. M.A. Stickney's rare coins, old paper money, and books, autographs, etc.; Mr. H.F. Waters's rare ancient furniture (Mr. Waters is now in London, engaged in historical research in reference to American families); Mr. John Robinson's remarkable collection of Chinese coins, and scarce views of old houses of Salem; Mr. T.F. Hunt's valuable collection of Chinese books and pictures; Rev. Dr. Bolles's fine collection of works on London; Rev. B.F. McDaniel's collection of engravings, etc.; Mr. N.J. Holden's and Mr. F.P. Richardson's collections of illustrated books, autographs, etc.; besides numerous minor collections. It is not too much to say that Professor E.S. Morse's collection of Japanese pottery is certainly not surpassed in the world; the South Kensington collection in London, which is the best in Europe, does not approach it in size or importance. One of the best museums of our country was started in Salem in the latter part of the last century, and that collection is now, as is well known, in charge of the Peabody Academy of Science. Its objects of natural history have in recent years been carefully classified and arranged under the direction of Dr. Henry Wheatland, Professors Morse, Putnam, Packard, and Robinson; and its cabinets, together with those of the Essex Institute, now contain probably more unique and valuable specimens than are to be found elsewhere in this country. * * * * * The "silhouette," or cheap portrait cut in black paper, was much in vogue in New England some seventy or eighty years ago. The process was named from M. Silhouette, an honest French minister who about 1759 was noted for his advocacy of economy in everything relating to the public welfare. He received a great deal of ridicule, and hence all inexpensive things were said to be _a la Silhouette_. At the rooms of the Essex Institute, and in many houses in Salem, there are numerous silhouettes of former citizens of the place. Those who remember the originals consider the likenesses often very striking. _CORRECT PROFILE LIKENESSES._ MOSES CHAPMAN [Illustration] Informs the Ladies and Gentlemen of Salem that he has taken a shop next to Mr. Morgan's, in North street, _Salem_, where he will take PROFILES in the newest and most elegant style: two of one person for 25 cents, or if desired, will paint and shade them for 75 cents. --> FRAMES, of different kinds and prices, for the Profiles may be had at the above place. Salem, January 23, 1808. _Salem Register._ * * * * * [Illustration]