Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Boroughs > City of Westminster
Present state of Clock Tower, Westminster 1856
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Present state of Clock Tower, Westminster 1856
Construction of the Clock Tower at the Tower of Westminster. Date: 1856
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 20158901
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Bubblepunk
1850s 1856 Clock Parliament Present Scaffolding Westminster
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> P
> those present
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Boroughs
> City of Westminster
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> London
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images July 2020
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph taken in 1856 captures the Clock Tower, popularly known as Big Ben, during its construction phase at the Tower of Westminster in London. The image offers a glimpse into the 1850s as the iconic landmark was being transformed into a symbol of British timekeeping excellence. The Clock Tower, which was officially named the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, is seen here surrounded by scaffolding, a testament to the meticulous work underway. The intricate details of the construction process are evident, with workers diligently toiling away on the structure's various levels. The photograph also reveals the surrounding Westminster Palace and its adjacent houses, providing a sense of context and scale. The Palace of Westminster, home to the Houses of Parliament, stands proudly in the background, its red roofs and Gothic Revival architecture contrasting beautifully with the industrial nature of the clock tower construction. The bid to build a new clock tower at the Palace of Westminster began in 1834, with the project being awarded to architect Charles Abbot in 1843. The construction process, however, was fraught with challenges, including delays, cost overruns, and even the discovery of the need for extensive repairs to the Palace. Despite these setbacks, the determination to complete the project was unwavering, as evidenced by the bustling construction site in this photograph. The present state of the Clock Tower in 1856 was a work in progress, with the final touches yet to be added. However, the dedication and craftsmanship on display were already promising an iconic structure that would become a global symbol of London and the United Kingdom.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
