The increasing conflict of trade interests between England and the Netherlands in the first half of the 17th century came to a head in 1651, when Cromwell's Navigation Act restricted English trade to English ships and thereby struck at the Dutch position as 'the carriers of Europe'. A Dutch diplomatic mission to resolve problems failed and the first of three rapidly ensuing Anglo-Dutch sea wars broke out in 1652 (-1654). This painting is thought to relate to an action during either the Second or Third Dutch Wars, 1665-67 and 1672-74.

The principal ship in the centre of the painting may be the 'Wakende Kraan', 44 - 46 guns, belonging to the Amsterdam Admiralty. However, although the stern is highly ornate and shows a crest containing a bird, it cannot be positively identified.

The technique of grisaille involved drawing with pen and ink, or ink wash, on prepared gesso panels or canvas and is more accurately described as pen-painting (penschilderij). This technique enabled the drawing to be highly detailed and demonstrate the artist's ability and knowledge of shipping. Pen-painting was pioneered by Witmont and his friend Willem van de Velde the Elder, who were its two finest practitioners. Witmont was born and died in Delft and was also an engraver and a member of the Guild of Delft from 1644. The painting is signed 'H. Witmont'.