Armstrong portrait conservation

Painted portrait of Edward La Touche Armstrong by Lindsey Bernard Hall. Portrait features Armstrong's bust, full face, winged collar and tie. — Lindsay Bernard Hall, 1859–1935, artist. E. La Touche Armstrong [ca. 1925] Oil on canvas. H36548. La Trobe Picture Collection.

Help us raise $6000 to conserve this painting

State Library Victoria is seeking your support to conserve the portrait of Edmund La Touche Armstrong (1864–1946) by Lindsay Bernard Hall, which is held in the Library’s painting collection.

Armstrong was a significant figure in Melbourne – he was the fifth Chief Librarian of the Melbourne Public Library, Museums, and National Gallery of Victoria (1896–1925) and from 1900 onwards was a longstanding member of The Wallaby Club, Victoria’s oldest walking club.

The portrait was painted by eminent artist Lindsay Bernard Hall, who was appointed as Director of the National Gallery of Victoria and Master of the School of Arts in 1891.

Sadly this work is not currently on display due to the lack of funds for its conservation. The portrait of Armstrong requires significant cleaning, removal and replacement of varnish and minor repairs to the canvas.

The Library is seeking support to cover the costs of engaging an external painting conservators to restore this important piece of Victorian and Library history. Our goal is to raise $6000.

Can you help us restore this painting and bring it back on public display? Please consider a making a tax-deductible donation today.

For further information, please contact the Philanthropy team on (03) 8664 7589.

Donate now