The painting was written shortly after the arrival of Canaletto to England, coinciding with the completion of the construction of the Westminster Bridge across the Thames. Apparently, she was commissioned by the fan of his talent Sir Hugh Smithson, who invested a lot of money in this construction. Canaletto was not limited to one species – this bridge again and again arises on its landscapes.
The unusual composition of this picture is strictly verified. Instead of showing the bridge from afar, Canaletto literally “enters” into its arch, which becomes the natural frame of the picture. The angle is close to the surface of the water, which makes it seem that you are in a boat floating under the bridge.
The huge dimensions of the bridge are felt almost physically, which is facilitated by a tiny bucket hanging from the bridge. The opening view of London is striking in its scale. Most buildings seem to be “fading”; it is easy to recognize only two architectural monuments – not long before this built St. Paul’s Cathedral and water tower.
Westminster Bridge in London with a motorcade of the Lord Mayor on the Thames by Antonio Canaletto 
View of the Thames and London from Somersethaus by Antonio Canaletto 
View of London by Antonio Canaletto 
The Grand Canal: a view to the northeast on the Rialto Bridge by Antonio Canaletto 
Westminster Bridge en Londres con un tren de lord mayor en el Támesis – Antonio Canaletto 
View of the Doge’s Palace in Venice by Antonio Canaletto 
Vue de Londres à travers l’arche du pont de Westminster – Antonio Canaletto 
London, Northumberland House by Antonio Canaletto