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RSA Archive

Preserving our past. Recording our present. Inspiring our future. 

The RSA archive team are here to help.

If you are researching the Great Exhibition, the Great Room paintings by James Barry, RSA Premium Awards, or any other topic related to the RSA you have come to the right place.

Get in touch if you have any enquires or to arrange tours of our secure archive or RSA House.

Contact the RSA Archive

Search the RSA Archive Catalogue

Our online archive includes minutes, membership lists, transactions, correspondence, artworks, photographs, and much more.

Search the Archive Catalogue
A hand holding a magnifying glass over a handwritten document. The magnified text shows elegant cursive writing on aged paper, enhancing the clarity of the script.

Sound archive

Our recordings on the British Library sound & moving image catalogue.

Architectural drawing of a classical building facade with columns, arches, and statues. The inscription "SOC.VET.ARTIUM LOND" is visible. The design features symmetry and ornamental details, emphasizing the grandeur of the structure.

JSTOR

Our Transactions and Journals, 1783-2011 (Before 1870 free).

Red background with an ornate letter "J" in white, surrounded by beige floral designs inside a square. Below the square, "STOR" is written in white uppercase letters.

Art UK

Our page on the UK’s national collection of oil paintings.

A historical painting depicts a large group of figures in 18th-century attire, gathered around a grand architectural setting. There's a prominent statue and painting in the background. The scene captures a sense of importance and dialogue among the people.

More resources

Discovery – The National Archives

Our records in the online catalogue of record descriptions for over 2,500 archives across the country.

AIM25

Database of archive and manuscript descriptions of over 100 London-based archives.

The Royal Commission for the Exhibition Of 1851

Established in 1850 to continue the organisation of the Great Exhibition of 1851 initiated by Prince Albert and the Society of Arts.

Our History

Looking to the future since 1754. Find out more about the famous names and change made in the past.

Explore
A historic illustration of a crowded assembly hall with numerous people gathered around a central table. The walls are adorned with large, detailed murals depicting various scenes and figures. The setting appears formal and ceremonial.