This evocative painting by Lim Tze Peng captures the vibrant pulse of Singapore River at Collyer Quay, where tongkangs and bumboats were once the lifeline of maritime trade. The composition showcases a cluster of vessels anchored along the riverbank, their robust wooden forms set against a backdrop of colonial architecture and dense foliage.

Lim’s expressive brushwork and muted yet earthy palette reflect both the grit of hard labor and the poetry of daily life along the bustling quay. More than a river scene, this work is a testament to Singapore’s transformation—from a thriving entrepôt to the modern city it is today. For collectors, it offers both artistic mastery and invaluable cultural memory.