William Strutt enjoyed a student life in Paris, France, and England, studying figurative and history painting.

In response to a near-breakdown and problems with his eyes, Strutt decided to visit Australia, arriving 5 July 1850 on the Culloden, where he then married.

Despite the lack of interest for major history paintings in Melbourne, Strutt continued to sketch suitable subjects, including the 'Black Thursday' bushfires, which swept over the colony on 6 February 1851.

Strutt also collected first-hand accounts from the rescue party and from John King, the expedition's sole survivor, upon his return.

Returning to England where he completed two major works based on Australian sketches, Black Thursday, 6 February 1851 and Bushrangers, Victoria, Australia, 1852.