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This hand-colored engraving titled A View of Westminster Bridge captures the architectural grandeur and bustling activity of Westminster Bridge in London, in the middle of the 18th Century.
The scene depicts the bridge spanning the River Thames, showcasing its thirteen grand arches, each meticulously rendered to highlight the engineering marvel of the era. The bridge, hailed as one of the most beautiful structures of its kind in Europe, measures 1,220 feet in length and 44 feet in width, according to the inscription in both English and French beneath the image.
The panorama of London unfolds beyond the bridge, with the city's skyline punctuated by various church steeples and domes, including the unmistakable silhouette of St. Paul’s Cathedral on the far right. The view is animated by the lively Thames River traffic, featuring numerous small boats and figures, suggesting the river's role as a vital artery for commerce and daily life in 18th-century London. The vibrant colors of the figures' attire and the sails of the boats lend a sense of dynamism and everyday activity to the scene.
The dual-language description emphasizes the bridge's status and the pride taken in its construction, a project completed at the considerable cost of £228,000, reflecting the substantial investment in public works during this period.
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