Samuel Walters of Liverpool travelled widely, as evidenced by the titles of many of his exhibited works. This striking topographical painting is enlivened by the plight of the storm damaged topsail schooner surrounded by rocks on all sides, and entirely dependent on what appears to be her sole remaining anchor.

Normally a schooner rig would enable the vessel to work to windward, avoiding the classical dangerous lee shore as portrayed. As may be seen, in this instance the main top mast has been carried away, effectively disallowing the use of the mainsail. Furthermore the jibboom is missing, and the foretopmast appears damaged. Unable to sail to windward, she has been forced downwind, until fetching up in the small rockbound bay and dropping anchor, a forlorn last hope.

The bar taut cable tells the whole story. Should it part under the tremendous forces involved, there can be little hope of rescue for those on board, despite the best efforts of the approaching group on the extreme right.

We are grateful to Mr Sam Davidson for his help in preparing this catalogue entry.