Terence Lane's lifetime collection of Victorian-era Australiana to be auctioned in Melbourne

On May 3 in Melbourne, the complete collection of the late curator Terence Lane will be auctioned off. Over his 40-year tenure at the National Gallery of Victoria, Lane gathered a vast array of 19th-century artifacts at his Carlton residence. Organized by Leonard Joel, the auction features curated lots arranged by room. Notable pieces include works from English artist Albert Moore and Melbourne's Henry Short, as well as colonial Australiana from the 1850s. Lane meticulously documented his collection with receipts and notes dating back to 1967. In 2007, he restored his Victorian-era home, maintaining original elements like marble fireplaces. His 1979 NGV exhibition, 'The Kangaroo in Decorative Arts,' significantly boosted the popularity of Australiana. Lane also played a role in major restoration efforts across Australia, including at Werribee Park and Villa Alba.