Art and Handcraft in the Woman's Building
of the World's Columbian Exposition

IN THE WOMAN’S BUILDING. 21 in our hands, lest hostile motives be ascribed to us. Our burdens have been greatly lightened, however, by the spontaneous sym- pathy and aid which have reached us from women, in every part of the world, and which have proved an added incentive and inspiration. When our invitation asking cooperation was sent to foreign lands, the commissioners already appointed generally smiled doubt- fully, and explained that their women were doing nothing; that they would not feel inclined to help us, and in many cases stated that it was not the custom of their country for women to take part in any public effort; that they only attended to their social duties, drove in the parks, etc. But as soon as these ladies received our message, sent in a brief and formal letter, the free-masonry among women proved to be such that it needed no explanation; they understood at once the possibilities. Strong committees were immediately formed of women having large hearts and brains— women who can not selfishly enjoy the ease of their own lives without giving a thought to their helpless and wretched sisters. Our unbounded thanks are clue to the exalted and influential personages who became, in their respective countries, patronesses and leaders of the movement inaugurated by us to represent what women are doing. They entered with appreciation into our work for the Exposition, because they saw an opportunity—which they gracefully and delicately veiled behind the magnificent laces form- ing the central objects in their superb collections—to aid their women by opening new markets for their wares. This was the earnest purpose of their majesties the Empress of Russia and Queen of Italy, both so noted for the progressive spirit they have displayed in promoting the welfare of the women under their kindly rule. They have sent large collections of the work of peasant women, through organizations which exist under their patronage for selling their handiwork. The committee of Belgian ladies was kind enough, to take special pains to comply with our request for statistics concerning- the industries and condition of women, notwithstanding the fact that the collecting of statistics is not in Europe so popular as with us. It has sent complete reports, attractively prepared in the form of monographs and charts, giving details which have been, secured only by great personal effort. Such figures have never before been obtained in that country, and the committee itself is surprised at the great amount of novel and valuable information it has succeeded in presenting.