This charming print shows the church of St Martin's in the Fields
There was a church on this site since at least the thirteenth century. But in the reign of George I the old church was pulled down and the present church, designed by James Gibbs erected in its place. It was completed in 1726.
The equestrian statue is of Charles I (r. 1625-1649) and was made in 1633 for Lord Treasurer Weston by Hubert le Sueur whose name is carved into the horse's hooves. It is London's oldest bronze statue.
Street life is bustling in the foreground, a fruit seller and a chimney sweep smoke pipes while waiting for business, and walkers, riders and carriages pass by. The artist was probably Hablot Knight Browne (Phiz) who illustrated many of Charles Dicken's books.
St Martin's Church from Charing Cross - Framed Antique Print
Image Number: 1175
Title: St Martin's Church from Charing CrossEngraver: John Woods (fl. 1835-1855)
Publisher: Originally produced for Woods’ History of London : Illustrated by Views in London and Westminster, first published in parts 1837-1838.
Medium: Steel engravingDate: 1838
Framed size (h x w): 299 x 294mm