View of London from Somerset House to Bridwel, from Mr. Everard's Summer House opposite to St. Bride's Church 1749

Editor: This is Samuel Buck's panoramic view of London, capturing the city from Somerset House around the 18th century. The Thames bustles with boats. What can you tell me about the social context of this kind of detailed cityscape? Curator: Cityscapes like this were often commissioned by or created for the merchant class to demonstrate their prosperity and power. Consider the implications of who had the resources to own such images and what narratives they reinforced. Editor: So, it's not just a pretty picture; it's about showing off London's economic strength. Curator: Precisely. And it invites us to think critically about whose London is being represented and who is excluded from this narrative of success. What do you notice about the people depicted? Editor: That makes me rethink the image completely! Thanks. Curator: It is crucial to read images like this critically.