This naval battle scene depicts the confrontation off Lagos between the French and British navies on 18th August 1759. British Admiral Edward Boscawen’s flagship, Namur, is shown port broadside on, in a following wind, in the centre of the picture. Her sails are riddled with holes, as are those of the other many vessels depicted. Cannon smoke billows across the scene. The French ships which were destroyed or captured are listed in the inscription below the image.