The Building of Westminster Bridge, London

The Building of Westminster Bridge records the massive construction project that occupied the Thames at Westminster from 1738 to 1750. Scott documented the bridge at multiple stages of construction, creating a visual chronicle of the engineering achievement that transformed London's transportation and urban geography, and this early view shows the work in progress with scaffolding and construction barges. Scott's repeated depictions of Westminster Bridge make him its most important pictorial chronicler, documenting the bridge from its foundation in 1738 through its completion in 1750 and its subsequent establishment as one of London's defining landmarks.

The construction scene provides Scott with an unusually dynamic subject, the scaffolding and temporary works creating complex geometric forms that he renders with his habitual precision. The working barges and construction equipment add documentary interest.