MARINE PAINTINGS
On Ludgate Hill, St. Paul's Cathedral dominated the Thames riverscape of the mid-1850's.
The jumble of 18th century wharfs and quays would, in a few years, be replaced by more substantial Victorian structures.
The river traffic above the upper pool was mostly of dumb barges as well as spritsail barges, two of which are shown here.
Their gear was lowered to allow them to navigate safely under the arches of the river's many bridges. One is shown hoisting its gear after clearing Southwark Bridge; the other, known as a “stackie” barge, is discharging hay into surrounding lighters.
These lighters would return to the eastern countryside with a cargo of horse manure.
An excursion steamer heads down river. These little "paddlers" first appeared in the 1830's.
Signed
Oil on canvas
10.75 x 19.75 inches.
27.5 x 50 cms.
Framed Size
14.5 x 23.75 inches; 37 x 60 cms.