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This large-scale painting, both ambitious and complex in conception, is the key mid-nineteenth century image addressing emigration. Rich in interpretative material, it focuses on the reactions of those left behind on shore. The scene is set along the Thames. Groups of figures, in a mix of gender and social class, are shown on the quayside as an emigrant ship departs. Sailors are shown cheering from the deck of the ship and from the sides of the rigging. They wave hats and arms or stretch out to maintain the links with shore for as long as possible. Partly in shadow, a group of emigrants look out from the deck below. They are subdued in contrast to the scene around them. A steam-tug guides the emigrant ship away from land; its red funnel spewing out the dark smoke, which spreads over the scene.