A brig is shown with fore-topgallant mast struck. It is running into the Bristol Avon and the end of the channel is marked with a beacon on the rocks on the left. What may be a pilot cutter is on the left, with land visible in the distance beyond. A full-rigged ship and distant land on the Welsh side of the Bristol Channel are visible on the right. This lively painting may have been commissioned from the artist by the brig's captain.

Walter was born in Bristol and was a pupil of Thomas Lang. He lived and worked in the commercial port there and his familiarity with marine subjects suggests that he may for a time have gone to sea. He was considered the leading ship-portrait painter in Bristol during the 19th century and this painting shows his close attention to details of the ship's appearance and rig. The painting is signed and dated, bottom left, 'J Walter 1838'.