The atmospheric picture shows a variety of small vessels trapped in the Pool of London during the frost of February 1895. Whilst trade did not come to a complete standstill the painting shows that the ice floes did immobilise lighters, barges and sailing ships. Only steamers were able to pass through the river unimpeded. Looming out of the mist in the distance is the newly built Tower Bridge, and just discernible on the left is the Tower of London.