Designed by the renowned 19th century engineer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the SS 'Great Britain' was considered the first modern steamship at the time of its launching in 1843. She was the largest ship of her time, built with metal, and propelled by screw rather than paddlewheels. In the print, the ship charges through a wave in rough waters. Water splashes on the deck of the bow while sailors work the rigging.