Rokeby Venus created National Art Collections Fund, its first campaigning triumph. King Edward VII greatly admired the painting, and anonymously provided £8,000 (£ in 2019) towards its purchase, and became Patron of the Fund thereafter. In part because he was overlooked until the mid-19th century, Velázquez found no followers and was not widely imitated. In particular, his visual and structural innovations in this portrayal of Venus were not developed by other artists until recently, largely owing to the censorship of the work. The painting remained in a series of private rooms in private collections until it was exhibited in 1857 at the
Rokeby Preparatory School distinguished reputation. For many years the pupils Have obtained great honours. With one voice they all proclaim: May Rokeby flourish! O gods, if the school is your work, Which rose one hundred ago From small beginnings, Standing on a hillside, Give to our kindly and receptive Children worthy qualities, So that all may proclaim: May Rokeby flourish! May all the boys who now study In the school show loyalty, Grace, honour, modesty And old-fashioned virtues, And continue in the Rokeby manner For many years to come. Let everyone with one voice proclaim: May Rokeby flourish!</poem> School fees per term for