'An Arch of Westminster Bridge', Samuel Scott

Artwork details

Artist

Samuel Scott (c.1702‑1772)

Title

An Arch of Westminster Bridge

Date c.1750

MediumOil paint on canvas

Dimensionssupport: 1357 x 1638 mm

Collection

Tate

Acquisition Purchased 1970

Reference

T01193

On display at Tate Britain

Theme: BP Walk through British Art

Room: 1730

Display caption

The arrival of Canaletto in England in 1746 may have stimulated Scott to compete by producing similar views of London scenery, particularly along the Thames.

This work celebrates an important event in the history of London. The bridge, shown near completion, was the first to be built over the Thames in over 600 years. During the eleven years of its construction, it was painted by many artists including Canaletto and Richard Wilson, (whose own view is displayed two paintings to the right). Like Canaletto, Scott has included lively figures, shown here swimming, drinking ale and peeping through the balustrade.

September 2004