Gezicht op Palace of Westminster, gezicht op het zuiden before 1869

This is a photograph of the Palace of Westminster, facing south, by John Harrington. Given the date of the photograph is unknown, it might be helpful to compare it to other images of the Palace of Westminster, in London, England, during its construction in the mid-19th century. As you can see, the building, a monumental neo-Gothic complex, looms large in the frame. The Palace's imposing architecture, with its intricate details and soaring towers, visually represents the power and authority of the British government. What is interesting to observe is the use of photography, a relatively new medium at the time, to document and disseminate images of political institutions. This photograph contributes to the construction of a national identity, reinforcing ideas of British exceptionalism and imperial grandeur. To understand the photograph fully, we can consult architectural plans, construction records, and period newspapers. These resources can provide insights into the social and institutional context of the Palace's construction.