St. Paul’s 1862 - 1863

This watercolor painting titled ‘St. Paul’s’ was made by David Roberts in 1852. Roberts painted during a time of great social change, capturing scenes that reflected the shifting identities and landscapes of 19th-century Britain. Here, the grandeur of St. Paul's Cathedral looms over the industrial structures along the Thames. The inclusion of smokestacks reflects the growth of industry and the rise of the working class. Yet, the painting doesn't ignore the human element. Small boats with people offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of Londoners navigating the city. The soft color palette suggests a sense of nostalgia or romanticism. Is Roberts celebrating progress or mourning the loss of a pre-industrial past? Perhaps he wanted to show the complex relationship between tradition and modernity? While seemingly a straightforward landscape, Roberts’ watercolor invites us to reflect on our own relationship with progress, change, and the stories we tell ourselves about who we are.