Diplomas

• Reference:GB 1716 RSA1/7

• Scope and Content

  Engraved diplomas presented to members elected to the Royal Scottish Academy. In addition, included in this series are a smaller number of non-RSA issued Diplomas and Certificates. These include for example Anne Redpath RSA’s Associate and Academician Diplomas from the Royal Academy; Edinburgh College of Art Diplomas including for Sir W G Gillies RSA , John Maxwell RSA , and Anne Redpath RSA ; Festival of Empire and Imperial Exhibition 1911, Exhibitor's Certificate awarded to Miss Ada Barclay, etc.

• Administrative / Biographical History

  Following Election all members of the Academy (to Associate [to 2005], Academician, and Honorary ranks) are given an engraved Diploma, signed by the sovereign of the day, and bearing the wax seal of the Academy attached by a length of ribbon. Traditionally these were presented at a General Assembly early in the year following election to those who were able to attend in person. In more recent times the Diplomas are presented at the Annual Varnishing Day Lunch when the new Members are invited to introduce themselves and give a short speech. The Diploma plates have been engraved by different Edinburgh Engravers down the years and include William Home Lizars HRSA; W & A K Johnston; and George Waterston & Sons Ltd.