Made with the sketchbook turned vertically, this and the facing page, folio 40 recto (
D17275) are typical slight, random studies in the Pool of London below Old London Bridge with its wide central arch, and the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral to the north-east beyond, as shown many times in 1820s sketchbooks. For more detailed information and context, see Matthew Imms’s Introduction to the ‘The River Thames, London and the South of England 1821–7’ section of this catalogue.
On the present page, Turner describes three rows of sailing vessels. A delicate outline of the Old London Bridge marks the space between the top and central rows. The bridge is repeated again on the left side of the middle drawing, in the background, with St Paul’s clearly evident towards the right.
Turner’s handling is deft and careful, describing the distinctive shapes of different vessels with interest and accuracy. An inscription which applies to the bottom sketch appears to describe the colour and quality of the sail belonging to the central vessel: ‘Tan Sail’.
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