Daniel Colwall
(died 1690), Treasurer of the Royal Society and founder of its museumSitter in 5 portraits
Colwall was a merchant who was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1661. He contributed unremarkable papers on 'making vitriol' and 'ordering oysters at Colchester' but his scientific distinction was of lesser importance than his philanthropy. Fellows were reluctant to pay their weekly subscription of a shilling and by 1674 only 53 of 146 Fellows paid regularly and the Society was £2000 in arrears. During Colwall's long tenure as Treasurer, 1665-79, his generosity frequently saved the Society from financial collapse. His donations also led to the establishment of the Society's museum. His contribution was recognised with his election as Vice-President in 1682.
after Unknown artist
line engraving, published 1681
NPG D29983
by Robert White
line engraving, published 1681
NPG D29985
by Robert White
line engraving, 1681
NPG D16201
after Unknown artist
line engraving, published 1681
NPG D16202
after Unknown artist
line engraving, published 1681
NPG D16203
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