On 21 July 1845, the Protection of Works of Art Act received Royal Assent. This Act established punishment for attacks on works of art and science exhibited in both public and private settings. It set a maximum sentence of 6 months, reserving the option of hard labor for men and 1, 2, or 3 private whippings at the discretion of the sentencing Court. Image: The Royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Articles

Amy Woodson-Boulton, “The City Art Museum Movement and the Social Role of Art”