This is an unsigned pencil and wash drawing, by the Elder, of the Dutch fleet under easy sail in a seaway. In the centre middle distance is a starboard quarter view of the commander-in-chief, probably De Ruyter in the ‘Delfland’, close-hauled on the starboard track under her main course and mizzen only; with a crowd of boats and a galjoot under her stern. In the right foreground is a starboard quarter view of a ship with only her main topsail set, a flag at the main and a full-length figure on her tafferel. This is possibly Tromp in the ‘Liefde’. There are a large number of ships in the background.

The drawing is an offset, which has not been rubbed on the back, and has been worked up with a little wash, which may be perhaps by a later hand.

Robinson has determined that from this work’s subject that it may possibly be part of the Bergan series.