The Society of Dilettanti

The Society of Dilettanti, founded in 1734, is a British organization originally composed of wealthy gentlemen passionate about ancient Greek and Roman art and culture. Its members supported the study, preservation, and promotion of classical antiquities, commissioning artworks and architecture inspired by ancient Greece and Rome. Over time, the society influenced the neoclassical movement in Britain, shaping art, design, and architecture. Today, it continues as a scholarly society dedicated to the appreciation and study of classical art and history, fostering research and cultural exchange among its members.