One of many studies of London and its shipping by the marine artist William Lionel Wyllie (1851-1931). Several lighters are gathered near a large steamer at a riverside wharf, presumably to receive cargoes for transport upriver. A number of Thames barges, identifiable by their distinctive spritsails, are moored either side of the river and a steam tug is towing a lighter, centre. For another version see PAF2170.