IPSWICH MUSEUM
...
THE SOIREE
The company began to arrive about half-past six o'clock, and by seven nearly the whole had assembled, presenting the elite of the town and neighbourhood.
Every arrangement appeared to have been made for giving eclat to the occasion. In addition to the gas burners, the Museum was illuminated by wax candles, and the lobbies and stair-case with well-executed imitations of Chinese lanterns. The effect of the whole, particularly as around the gallery the glass cases had been completed, was unique.
In addition to the various objects of curiosity, the following particularly attracted attention. Facing the top of the stair-case was suspended the fine portrait of the Rev. W. Kirby, by Bischoff, which, as a production of art, was much admired. The next object was an electrical clock, presented by Mr. C.F. Gower, which appeared greatly to interest the visitors. ....
Source: findmypast - The Ipswich Journal 16 December 1848, Page 3