A view from the water of a steam ship towing a ship into the Grand Harbour at Valletta, Malta. The sparing use of ink across the etching provides an atmospheric quality reminiscent of clear Mediterranean weather. Across the coast Wyllie suggests the shape and density of the town, specifying few architectural details in order to solidify the illusion to Mediterranean architecture. Row boats are dotted along the right of the image, which may allude to the historical tradition of communication between Valletta and neighbouring towns by row boat.

Wyllie travelled extensively, often on shipping and cruise ships. To fund his cruises Wyllie often painted portraits of the cruise ships. In 1893, and the late 1920s (probably 1928) Wyllie visited the Mediterranean. The works resulting from the 1920s trip included two paintings exhibited at the Royal Academy: 'The temple of Pallas Athene from the sea' (1929), and 'Athens from the Gulf of Aegina', exhibited posthumously in 1931. He also produced a set of six drypoints of the Mediterranean, among them views of Gibraltar, Naples and Malta. Related works in the collection include PAF1451, PAF1483, PAF2007.

Technique includes drypoint.; Signed by artist.

W. L. Wyllie (1851-1931) was a British Marine artist. Born in London, Wyllie painted, drew, and etched Thames scenes throughout his life. He moved to Portsmouth in 1907, where he continued working, supported the restoration of the Victory and painted the Trafalgar Panorama. Early in his career Wyllie was an illustrator for The Graphic, and he became a member of the Royal Academy in 1907.