This lithograph depicts the ‘Great Western’, which was the first purpose-built transatlantic steamship. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and launched in Bristol in 1837, she established the advantage of steam over sail for transatlantic travel, becoming the model for successive Atlantic paddle steamers. The ‘Great Western’ carried a large array of sails, but she is shown here with the sails on all four of her masts furled. Smoke pours from her funnel and her flags stream out as she steams into the wind in a spumy, choppy sea. Vessels under sail are visible in the background to her right and left.