Lunar Society Collection

Erasmus Darwin House. This is the house where Erasmus Darwin (1731-1802), British physician and grandfather of Charles Darwin, lived from 1756 to 1781

James Watt (1736-1819) and the Newcomen Engine (oil on canvas)
CH130394 James Watt (1736-1819) and the Newcomen Engine (oil on canvas) by Lauder, James Eckford (1811-69); Private Collection; Photo eChristies Images; British, out of copyright

The Lunar Globe, 1745-1806
BIR189293 The Lunar Globe, 1745-1806 by Russell, John (1745-1806); Birmingham Museums and Art Gallery; (add.info.: Russell made the first English lunar map; ); English, out of copyright

James Watt and the Steam-Engine, illustration from Hutchinson
STC373560 James Watt and the Steam-Engine, illustration from Hutchinsons Story of the British Nation, c.1923 (litho) by Stone

James Watt and the Steam-Engine, illustration from Hutchinson
IL370605 James Watt and the Steam-Engine, illustration from Hutchinsons Story of the British Nation, c.1923 (litho) by Stone

Portrait of Dr Erasmus Darwin, (1731-1802) scientist, inventor and poet
CH142275 Portrait of Dr Erasmus Darwin, (1731-1802) scientist, inventor and poet, grandfather of Charles Darwin, 1792-93 (see also 5516) by Wright of Derby

Portrait of Dr Erasmus Darwin (1731-1802) scientist, inventor and poet
BAL72377 Portrait of Dr Erasmus Darwin (1731-1802) scientist, inventor and poet, grandfather of Charles Darwin, c.1770 by Wright of Derby, Joseph (1734-97); 76x63.5 cm; Darwin College, Cambridge

Great Barr Hall, Staffordshire (oil on canvas)
6041471 Great Barr Hall, Staffordshire (oil on canvas) by Allport, Henry Curzon (1789-1854); 76 x 114.5 cm; Private Collection; (add.info.: Castellated house in Gothic style)

Portrait of Dr Erasmus Darwin (1731-1802) scientist, inventor and poet
BAL5516 Portrait of Dr Erasmus Darwin (1731-1802) scientist, inventor and poet, grandfather of Charles Darwin, 1792-93 (see 142275) by Wright of Derby

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Coltman, c. 1770-72 (oil on canvas)
3709997 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Coltman, c.1770-72 (oil on canvas) by Wright of Derby, Joseph (1734-97); 127x101.6 cm; National Gallery, London

Portrait of Matthew Boulton (1728-1809) (etching) (b / w photo)
XJF115862 Portrait of Matthew Boulton (1728-1809) (etching) (b/w photo) by English School, (18th century); Private Collection; English, out of copyright

Erasmus Darwin, British doctor
Erasmus Darwin (1731-1802), British physician and grandfather of Charles Darwin. Erasmus Darwin studied medicine at the universities of Edinburgh and Cambridge, qualifying in 1755

Lunar Society Meeting
Meeting of the Lunar society at " Heathfield", the Birmingham home of James Watt. The Lunar Society was a dinner club whose members included prominent industrialists and scientists

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The Lunar Society, a gathering of brilliant minds and innovators, was at the forefront of scientific and industrial advancements during the 18th century. Founded in Birmingham, England, this society brought together individuals who were passionate about pushing the boundaries of knowledge and exploring new frontiers. One notable location associated with the the Erasmus Darwin House. This house served as a meeting place for members to exchange ideas and discuss their latest discoveries. It was within these walls that groundbreaking discussions took place, shaping the future of science and technology. Amongst those present at Lunar Society meetings was James Watt, renowned for his invention of the steam engine. A captivating oil painting depicts Watt alongside his creation - the Newcomen Engine - showcasing his pioneering spirit and engineering prowess. Another fascinating artifact linked to this society is The Lunar Globe. Created between 1745-1806, it provided an accurate representation of our moon's surface long before space exploration became a reality. This remarkable globe symbolizes both scientific curiosity and human ingenuity. Illustrations from Hutchinson's book capture James Watt's pivotal role in revolutionizing industry through his steam engine invention. These illustrations depict him working diligently on his creation while shedding light on its immense impact on society. Dr. Erasmus Darwin stands out as one of the prominent figures associated with this intellectual circle; he was not only a scientist but also an inventor and poet. Portraits immortalize him in various forms – capturing both his brilliance as well as his multifaceted nature. Great Barr Hall in Staffordshire holds historical significance due to its association with Matthew Boulton – another influential member of the Lunar Society known for being an entrepreneur and manufacturer during that era. An exquisite oil painting showcases this grand hall where important discussions may have taken place among visionaries striving towards progress. The Coltman couple's portrait serves as a reminder that women too played significant roles within this esteemed group; they contributed their intellects and perspectives to the Lunar Society's endeavors.