Exhibitions at the RSM | The Royal Society of Medicine

Latest exhibition

The exhibition is free to attend. To gain entry to the Library exhibition, you will need to check in at reception. Find out more about visiting the RSM.

Treasures of the RSM

19 July - 17 December

Discover the hidden treasures from the RSM’s extensive medical archive. This exhibition offers a fascinating insight into the history of medicine and the growth of the medical and scientific professions.

From the earliest printed textbook for midwives to our rarest book, William Harvey's De Motu Cordis published in 1628, and items signed by some of the most notable names in medical history such as Charles Darwin, Queen Victoria, and Florence Nightingale, come and view this unique selection of objects in person.

Takes place in the Library and open to all.

Online exhibitions

Famous figures

From oil paintings to art prints, this online exhibition explores the notable physicians, scientists and famous historical figures that can be found in the RSM's art collection.

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Treasures of the RSM

A fascinating insight into the history of medicine, the growth of the medical and scientific professions and into the lives of former members of the Society.

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Notable Presidents of the Royal Society of Medicine

Take a closer look at a few of the prominent figures who have been inaugurated as President of the Royal Society of Medicine.

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Around the world: Medical journeys through the ages

Follow voyages of world-renowned physicians, surgeons and nurses that have shaped our understanding of medicine, through the exploration of journals, logs and records dating back to the 1700s.

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The rise of the specialty

This exhibition looks at the 100-year anniversary of the Royal Society of Medicine’s Urology Section, which was crucial to the establishment of urology as a medical specialty.

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Sir William Osler, 1849-1919

A great figure in medicine from the late 1800s onwards, Sir William Osler was a member of the RSM and one of the founders of our History of Medicine Section. This exhibition takes a close look at the life of the renowned physician.

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History of the Library

Steeped in 200 years of history, learn more about the beginnings of the RSM’s Library and how it has evolved into one of the largest medical libraries in Europe.

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Women in medicine

Showcasing women throughout history who have practised medicine, this online exhibition is a celebration of leading female clinicians who have paved the way for women to practice medicine today.

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Snapshots in LGBTQ + medical history

Showcasing key dates and moments that have impacted the medical history of LGBTQ, from the first documented gender reassignment surgery to the formation of LGBT networks by the UK Department of Health.

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A harmless treasure

Take a closer look at the RSM Library’s collection of rare and beautiful herbal illustrations from the 16th and 17th century, including John Gerard's The Herball and John Parkinson's Theatrum Botanicum.

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The Victorian Botanist

Continuing the theme of herbal illustration in our previous exhibition, A Harmless Treasure, this exhibition showcases the botanical books that emerged from the popular pursuit of botany in the Victorian era.

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