3-016-166 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Billingsgate, 1859. One of the 16-print 'Thames set', a daringly abstract composition which is dominated by moored fishing vessels, and the bow of a barge in the left. For many centuries Billingsgate was the main wharf for the mooring of fishing vessels and landing their cargoes. Corn, malt, salt and fish were landed as early as the 13th century. The local market was especially famous for fish, as well as the bad language used by some fishmongers. London Bridge and the tower of Southwark Cathedral are visible in the background on the right.