1-157-220 - Oxford Science Archive/Heritage Images

Library of the Royal Institution, Albermarle Street, London, 1808-1811. Interior view of the library showing gentlemen reading and engaged in discussion. The Royal Institution was established in 1799 with the purpose of diffusing the knowledge, and facilitating the general introduction, of useful mechanical inventions and improvements; and for teaching, by courses of philosophical lectures and experiments, the application of science to the common purposes of life. From The Microcosm of London, published by Ackermann, London, 1808-1811.