When did royal academies become important in the art world?

Royal academies became important in the art world during the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly with the establishment of the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture in France in 1648. These institutions played a crucial role in shaping artistic standards, providing formal training, and promoting specific styles, such as Classicism and later Neoclassicism. They also served as gatekeepers of artistic legitimacy, influencing the careers of artists by recognizing and awarding them with prestigious accolades. The influence of royal academies persisted into the 19th century, shaping art education and the art market significantly.