Charles Conder, an English-born painter, lithographer and designer, was one of the key founders of the Heidelberg school of Australian impressionism with Tom Roberts, Frederick McCubbin and Arthur Streeton.

The colour choice for this oil painting has produced a dramatic and atmospheric view of Sydney Harbour. Most likely shown from the heights of Point Piper in the afternoon light, the painting captures the water and bays of Sydney Harbour looking west. Fort Denison is visible in the middle of the image.