This work is one of Jenner’s most powerful historical paintings, depicting a terrifying moment for the paddle-steamer HMS Retribution, a Royal Navy supply ship battered by a freak storm off Balaclava during the Crimean War. On 14 November 1854, a powerful storm moved across the Black Sea, devastating the navy and armed forces, and inflicting severe damage. According to the ship’s log, the vessel was struck by lightning, losing two of her three anchors and the rudder. The ship listed dangerously, at risk of capsizing, with men struggling on deck to secure her in perilous conditions. The tortured sails, the dark clouds and the whitewash from the waves lend a sense of impending doom. However, a glimmer of hope is symbolised by the patch of blue in the background and a small white bird in the lower right of the painting.

Unlike many other ships in the fleet, Retribution survived the storm, bringing those aboard (including His Royal Highness The Duke of Cambridge, Prince George) to safety. Jenner served on this ship later in his Naval career.