This diary, the eighth of sixteen volumes, written by the artist Joseph Farington between 1793 and his death in 1821 provides an excellent insight into daily life in the London art community at the end of the eighteenth century.

Farington's diary is an invaluable source for this period, primarily due to his meticulous recording of events ranging from various dinners, the weather, and meetings of the Royal Academy to his own commissions for numerous publications and wider European events.

This volume includes many references and accounts of the most significant events between February 1805 and April 1807. There are numerous accounts of dissention within the Royal Academy, most notably with regard to the resignation and subsequent reinstating of Benjamin West as President, and Martin Archer Shee's (1769-1850) attacks on the hierarchy of the Academy, particularly Farington's influence and conduct as head of the hanging committee for the 1805 exhibition, which led Shee to bestow upon him the appellation 'Dictator to the Academy'.

Besides events regarding the Royal Academy, Farington also makes reference to key events such as the battle of Trafalgar in October 1805 and the 'Delicate Investigation' of the Princess of Wales in 1806. There are also many accounts with remarks on London society. These include various comments on the conduct of the sons of George III, the career of Master Betty (1791-1874), a child prodigy who was often compared to the famous actor David Garrick (1717-1779), and also small statements on topics of conversation ranging from vaccinations and education, to ghosts and the dangers of cotton mills.

Farington initially intended his diary to be destroyed following his death but a change of heart meant that only the most controversial elements were removed, particularly details about the financial troubles of his elder brother William and some comments regarding his acquaintances. These wishes were partly carried out by his brother, Richard Atherton Farington, following his death in 1821.