School of Genius

"Since its foundation in 1768 the Royal Academy has been the theatre on whose broad stage the triumphs, tragedies, sensations and scandals of the British art world have been enacted. This book is a meticulously researched and highly illustrated portrait of those who have played a part in the institution's development from its inception to the present day." "Through interviews with Senior Academicians and unlimited access to the unexplored secrets of the Royal Academy's library and archive, James Fenton examines the many sides of this unique organisation with erudition and candour."--Jacket.