View on the Avon at Hotwells

Brunel's suspension bridge was not complete when this view was painted. Building works took place from 1836 to 1843, and then the money ran out. Rather than being enhanced by an elegant bridge, Bristol's magnificent gorge was in fact spoilt by two gaunt towers. It was eventually finished in 1864. The artist knew this scene well as the street where he lived, Freeland Place, is included and there is lively detail such as the boatload of turtles by the pier and a man carrying one on his head.