Montrose High Street (1826) by Alexander Milne back on display at Montrose Museum

We’re pleased to announce that Alexander Milne’s painting, ‘Montrose High Street, 1826’, is finally back on display at Montrose Museum!

Some visitors may remember that in October of last year, there was an unfortunate radiator leak which damaged this beautiful painting, and thus it had to be sent away for conservation work.

Dundee conservators, Egan, Matthews & Rose, have done an amazing job of restoring this painting back to its former glory, and in its process a few hidden details were discovered. Details such as a gentleman with a wooden leg, a lady wearing glasses, and a dog in what appears to be a Santa costume (though, of course isn’t!) – Can you spot anymore?

At first this painting appears simply to be an engaging scene depicting the hustle and bustle of life in 19th Century Montrose. However, this is a painting with stories to tell… many of the figures depicted going about their business are actually notable figures of the day such as Mr. Tailyour Esq. of Newsmanwalls, Mr. Carnegie Esq. of Craigo, and the local Town Officer features alongside the town Grocer and Minister of the day. Even the artist himself, who was Art Master at Montrose Academy at the time, can be found by eagle-eyed visitors. However, what really makes visitors stop and smile is when they spot the pickpocket trying his luck with none other than ‘John O’Arnha’ or John Findlay, famed for being the inspiration of the narrative poem of the same name.

To view this lovely painting in person, please visit Montrose Museum. Open Fri-Mon (closed Tues, Wed & Thurs) 10:30am-4pm.