This is a vintage woodcut illustration depicting the explosion of the steamboat Moselle on the Ohio River. The scene is chaotic and dramatic. The steamboat is shown mid-explosion, with a large plume of black smoke billowing upwards. The hull of the boat is cracked and broken, and debris is scattered across the water. Numerous figures are depicted falling, jumping, or struggling in the water, indicating the passengers and crew attempting to escape the disaster. Some figures are shown with life preservers. The paddlewheel is visible on the side of the boat, and a chimney is emitting smoke. The overall impression is one of intense chaos and tragedy.