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The Iron Bridge across the Severn The large arching iron bridge, spanning the river, is the central focus of this river landscape composition. Massive concrete abutments flank either side of the central light and airy structure. In the immediate center foreground is a small boat holding four figures. The right hand figure appears to be steering the boat, while three well dressed figures (not facing the viewer) look upstream. The gentleman at left points upward, and appears to be conversing with the women. Two working boats on the right and left side of the composition balance the central boat. Above the river scene, crossing the span, a horse drawn carriage approaches the center. The lacy guardrail has additions of tall lantern like structures at both ends and in the center. In the center of the composition, the river winds to the background. Diagonally slanting masts of ships eventually fade from view. On the left bank, a white horse and red carriage move along the dirt road next to the river. Dotting the right bank are several seemingly domestic structures. Small masted boats are moored alongside the shore. A smoking chimney occupies the central background. Silhouetted against a subdued sky, the viewer's eye is drawn to the plumes of smoke and neighboring structures - all of which contribute to the whole of the hill on the right hand side. Background The world's first iron bridge, spanning the River Severn, was completed about 1779. Abraham Darby (grandson of Abraham Darby - Coalbrookdale) spearheaded this project, along with thirteen fellow financial subscribers and ironmasters, as an advertisement for their product: cast and wrought iron. The Iron Bridge, as illustrated, was a new and major technological feat, the figures in the central boat pointing up and discussing the novelty. Spanning 98 feet and constructed at a cost of about $4,800, the bridge allowed for easy access, as illustrated by the horse and carriage on the span. The span itself, arching above the center as well as in the reflection below, frames the iron works at Coalbrookdale. This facility was the center of the Darby family's iron industrial activity that included a blast furnace. The Bridge itself makes a light and elegant appearance tho’ apparently no ways deficient in strength. In viewing it either up or down water, it resembles an elegant Arch in some elegant Cathedral.
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