Down County Museum’s fine art collection relates to County Down in some way, whether topographical, portraits or works by local artists. The collection began when the museum was established in 1981 and many works were given to the museum by local people; others were purchased from amateur as well as professional artists. These include pieces of national and international significance. The museum’s published catalogue of fine art demonstrates the unique nature of the collection, with artists such as Thomas James Carr, Nevill Johnson, Sir John Lavery, Anne Madden, Colin Middleton and Daniel O’Neill represented. Of particular importance are three portraits attributed to Sir Godfrey Kneller. The catalogue 'Art of Down' by Eileen Black and M. Lesley Simpson is available at the museum.