Much of the work of the society consisted of publishing chromolithographs of Italian art works, especially fresco paintings, of earlier centuries and raising public awareness for the preservation of these works. One of the people most responsible for furthering the goals of  the society was Henry Layard, who joined in 1852. Some of the other important early members were John Ruskin, Charles Thomas Newton, and Henry Liddell.
The organization aimed to raise public awareness about preserving Italian art, particularly frescoes from earlier periods, through publishing chromolithographs of these works.  Henry Layard joined the society in 1852 to further their goals. John Ruskin, Charles Thomas Newton, and Henry Liddell were among the other early members who played a vital role in this endeavor.