Victoria Street, Manchester

Arthur Fitzwilliam Tait 1819 - 1905

Summary

Scene depicting a view of Victorian Manchester along Victoria Street, with the viewer positioned looking downhill towards the rest of the industrial city. Horses on the road carry guards as well as civilians in carriages, the surrounding streets are lined with figures in late nineteenth century dress, including top hats, bonnets and full length coats. Horses also pull cargo such as straw bales along the road, receeding into the distance to the left of the painting. There is church visible in the distance, as well as a bridge and signs of industrial advancements such as the smoking chimneys. The road is lined with houses and shop fronts, which is lit up by the bright midday sun.