File:Hong Kong Harbour & Victoria Peak, circa 1850.jpg

English: Hong Kong Harbour and Victoria Peak, circa 1850

At this point, the signal tower atop the peak has yet to be installed and there is a strand or two of beachfront acreage still available.
Two American ships are prominent: a pacific sidewheel steamer (one of only a few possible for this date) is at anchor between British ships, while an interesting American sailing sloop hold the traditionally important center foreground, proudly flying the star & stripes. Chinese-built hulks for themselves and the British compete for anchorage with a french sailing ship as well.

The vantage the artist has chosen is a bit more northern than most views, affording a view of the range on into the Guangzhou and Guangdong province. It is in this direction that the last European ship is depicted, what appears to be a Dutch ensign on the staff of a sailing barque. The exacting brushwork of the artist and realistic coloration makes exploring the buildings over the Victorian headland an adventure, with towers and residences near the warehouses. A British flag flies from a staff set in foliage, softly stating the most prominent residents of the period, still live less than halfway up the peak.