Object of the Day: A Drawing by Henry Gastineau, 1831

Henry G. Gastineau (1791-1876) studied at the Royal Academy Schools and trained as an engraver. He is best known, however for his topographical drawings and landscape paintings. He travelled extensively throughout Britain, painting and drawing the landscape and man-made features.


Here, we see Gastineau’s drawing of Menai Bridge—signed and dated 1831. This suspension bridge which was built in 1826 connects the Island of Anglesey to the mainland of Wales. Referred to as Pont Grog y Borth in Welsh, this was one of the first suspension bridges ever constructed in the world. Gastineau has captured the bridge—still in its infancy—with remarkable detail. Surprisingly, the site still looks very much the same today.