Overall: 59.5cm (23.25in) x 69.5cm (27.25in)
Mixed method engraving. Engraved by Charles Lewis after Thomas J. Barker. Title and publication details beneath the image, 'Nelson Receiving the Swords on Board the San Josef, Feb.y 14, 1797. To the British Navy, this Historical Engraving from the Original Picture in the Possession of the Publishers, ie repectfully dedicated by Leggatt, Hayward & Leggatt.’ Published November 10, 1853, by Leggatt, Hawyward & Leggatt, 79, Cornhill. Contained in gilt wood glazed frame.
"Westminster Abbey! or, glorious victory!", exclaimed Nelson as he used the 80-gun Spanish ship San Nicolás as a stepping stone to board the 112-gun San Josef at the Battle of Cape St. Vincent on 14 February 1797. Having disobeyed orders by breaking out of the rear of the ponderous British line to attack the Spanish van, which further included the 130-gun Santisima Trinidad, Nelson’s gamble paid dividends when San Josef coming to the aid of San Nicolás became entangled in the former’s rigging, resulting in the capture of both vessels by Nelson and his crew. Brought into the Royal Navy and renamed 'San Josef', the ship was finally broken up in 1849.