4 August 2011 Last updated at 11:26

Art for the nation - Sir Charles Eastlake

He might not have founded the National Gallery, but as its first director Sir Charles Lock Eastlake left an enduring legacy in the exhibition rooms of the grand building that dominates the northern side of Trafalgar Square in central London.

Instrumental in transforming the way paintings were hung, he brought relative order to previously chaotic displays. His annual travels across Europe also led to acquisition of more than 150 masterpieces.

As the National Gallery celebrates his hard work, take a look at Sir Charles' life with one of the curators Susanna Avery-Quash.

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Sir Charles Eastlake: Art for the Nation can be seen at the National Gallery, London, until 30 October 2011. Admission free.

All images subject to copyright. Music courtesy Reliable Source Music.

Slideshow production by Paul Kerley. Publication date 4 August 2011.

The National Gallery

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