William Shipley was an English drawing master, social reformer and inventor who, in 1754, founded an arts society in London that became The Royal Society of Arts, or Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures & Commerce (RSA).
Engraved portrait of William Shipley (William Hincks, late 18c.).
The Society of Arts premises at 18 John Street, Adelphi, London (18c. engraving).
The Society of Arts distributing its awards (engraving – artist unknown).
The Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, commonly known as the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), is a London-based organisation.
The RSA building (18th-century engraving)
Front façade of the RSA building at 8 John Adam Street in London
The RSA building, rear façade (facing the Strand)