[1] The institution was established following a public meeting in the Rotunda on 24 June 1813[2][a] with the object of stimulating native talent by furnishing models to assist the labours of Irish artists and by rewarding the authors of works of superior merit.

[3] An exhibition of esteemed old paintings had never taken place in Ireland and a national gallery did not exist for such events.

[4] Its first exhibition was held at the Royal Dublin Society's House on Hawkins Street.

[7] The institution held eight exhibitions between 1814 and 1832 but was forced to close due to financial troubles.

[8] A later Royal Irish Art Union was established in 1839 and also held its meetings at the RII's headquarters on College Street.