This sketch depicts a view of Robben Island where new prisoners would first set foot on the island. Nelson Mandela made a decision to highlight the ocean and landing stage in colour, two elements which clearly have significant symbolism in his interpretation. Prisoners would be stripped and searched on arrival and changed into prison clothes removing all signs of external personal identity. The landing stage would be their first contact with the prison island and the sea their last contact with freedom. Every Nelson Mandela work sold by Belgravia Gallery has a signature verification by the eminent South African signature expert, Cecil Greenfield.