He is poised to receive the sword of a Spanish officer who kneels on the deck to support the dying Spanish Commodore Geraldino in his right arm. A priest also kneels just beyond him, and another Spanish officer holds his sword in both hands towards Nelson. Immediately behind Nelson on the left, is Captain Edward Berry, who was with him in the 'Captain'.

Westall has conveyed the staged effect by employing a dramatic language of gesture and expression. The static tableau in the foreground contrasts with the turmoil being played out in the distance. Nelson's uniform has been closely observed as he stands poised over the dying man, while still-life objects such as a pistol, piece of rope and bloody swords arranged carefully on the deck. A theatrical effect is implied by the rhythmic and exaggerated arm movements of the chief protagonists. The composition is both idealised and largely imaginary. By Nelson's own account the Spanish Commodore on the 'San Nicolas' was shot down in the initial rush, which Nelson led and thence straight into the 'San Josef', on whose quarter-deck he received the swords of surrendering Spanish officers.