This drypoint etching shows two steamers unloading their cargoes into lighters which were used to convey goods between the ships and the quayside. They took their name from this process of 'lightening' the ship. The lightermen secured the 'free water clause' allowing them to be exempted from charges in the enclosed docks that were built during the 19th century. They were thus able to enter the docks and receive or deliver goods directly to or from vessels. At the height of the port's prosperity some 6000 lighters carried cargoes to and from the docks and wharves of London. At the left is a light depiction of London Bridge, and the structures on the right are St Magnus the Martyr and Monument.

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.