Somerset House (Morning)
Such picturesque views of London were popularised by the work of Canaletto (1697-1768), for whom James is reputed to have been an assistant. Matching pairs of river views were particularly collectible, and this view of Somerset House is accompanied by Jamesâ view of Westminster Bridge. There are numerous other versions of this composition. The Ferensâ work corresponds most closely to those in the Royal Collection, in which there are three versions. The main building on the left is the medieval Old Savoy Palace. In the centre, partly obscured by trees is Old Somerset House with the tower of St. Mary le Strand. On the right is the tower of St. Clement Danes. James has been described as âa rather pedestrian imitatorâ of his contemporary Samuel Scott (1703-72).
