A depiction of the James Watt (shown starboard broadside in the centre of the image) sailing through a crashing wave of whitewater during a storm. The bowsprit is partially hidden, its tip re-emerging from the waves. The paddle steamer’s name is inscribed on the paddlebox. Its sails have not been rigged and the single funnel bears four stripes. The sea is turbulent and light, diagonal lines contrast against the dark, cloudy sky to suggest rainfall.