A view of the large thatched house ('bure') at Mbau owned by Ratu Timoci Tavanavanua (known as Timothy), the second son of King Seru Epenisa Cakobau [Thakambau]. Nine people, are posing outside the 'bure' and on the cleared ground before it. The roof of a 'bure' is thatched using a reed called sina. Across the top of the roof, piercing either side, is a black post known as the 'balabala', as can be seen in the photograph. This is the trunk of a fern tree. While the ends are not decorated, the 'bure' belonging to the king is decorated with white cowrie shells to indicate his chiefly status (see image ALB0167.102).

According to Dr Coppinger's account of the cruise, HMS Alert arrived at Levuka, Fiji, on 18 September and departed on 11 October 1880.

The photograph is captioned 'Timothy's house at Mbau'.