Sketch of Somerset House from the Thames

This detailed sketch of Somerset House, as seen from the Thames, includes vessels on the river and St Paul's Cathedral in the distance.

Somerset House was designed by the architect Sir William Chambers, who had the task of building 'an object of national splendour'. Although work began in 1776, the building was not declared complete until 1801, several years after Chambers' death.

As well as a draughtsman, Edward Dayes was a painter of portraits, miniatures and topographical scenes. He illustrated a number of literary texts and, towards the end of his career, began to paint biblical subjects and experiment with oils. Dayes was a regular exhibitor at the Royal Academy from 1786 onwards and his later work was also displayed at the Society of Artists.