This is a black and white illustration depicting a scene from De Saussure's descent from Mont Blanc in 1787. The image is titled 'The Suppressed Plate of De Saussure's Descent from Mont Blanc' and is described as a 'very rare print'. The scene is dominated by a steep, rocky mountainside covered in snow. A group of figures is descending the mountain, connected by a rope. Some figures are walking, while others are sliding or being lowered down the slope. One figure is depicted falling, suggesting a dangerous situation. In the foreground, there's a makeshift structure resembling a ladder or scaffolding, possibly used to aid the descent. The background shows more of the snow-covered mountains and a cloudy sky. The style of the illustration is reminiscent of historical engravings or etchings, with detailed lines and shading to create depth and texture. The overall impression is one of adventure, danger, and the challenges of early mountaineering.