An Arch of Old Westminster Bridge

An Arch of Old Westminster Bridge, painted around 1750, documents the new Portland stone bridge designed by Charles Labelye that opened in 1750 after twelve years of construction. Scott painted the bridge repeatedly during and after its construction, making it one of his most characteristic subjects, and these views document the first new Thames crossing in London since the medieval London Bridge. 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 viewpoint from beneath the arch creates a dramatic framing device, with the bridge's massive stonework rendered in careful detail. The play of light and shadow through the arch demonstrates Scott's architectural understanding.