'An Arch of Old Westminster Bridge', Samuel Scott

Artwork details

Artist

Samuel Scott (c.1702‑1772)

Title

An Arch of Old Westminster Bridge

Date c.1750

MediumOil paint on canvas

Dimensionssupport: 270 x 397 mm

Collection

Tate

Acquisition Purchased 1886

Reference

N01223

Not on display

Display caption

Scott was primarily a painter of marine and river views, especially of the Thames. The latter were inspired by those of Canaletto who, like Scott, was interested in the construction of old Westminster Bridge. Construction began in 1739, but Scott's paintings of it were probably done in 1750 just before it was opened to traffic. This particular oil is one of five versions. Its small size suggests that it is possibly the first Scott painted, worked up from pencil studies made on the spot, to test ideas he had for his much larger and monumental work. Like Canaletto, Scott has included a touch of humour: on top of the balustrade a construction worker is taking a well-earned break.

September 2004