Fri 24 Sep, 2021
From its 18th-century origins, Somerset House has been a centre for debate and discussion including the first home of the Royal Academy of Arts and other learned societies – an intellectual powerhouse for the nation. For over 200 years the building housed various government departments including the Public Records office and the Inland Revenue until Somerset House Trust was established in July 1997 to conserve and develop Somerset House as an arts centre. Home to The Courtauld since 1989, Somerset House has a vital position as a key London Landmark. Christine Stevenson, Professor of Early Modern Art and Architecture, and Head of Department of History of Art, will take Samuel Courtauld Society members on an architectural tour of the building.