Three nutcracker soldiers stand side by side, each with a tall black hat, white beard and red coat with gold braiding. Above them, a garland of red poinsettias, holly leaves, red berries, pine sprigs and gold and crimson baubles spans the top of the picture. The tips of two candle flames show at the bottom corners.

The wall behind them is painted as peeling plaster, with cracks of gold leaf showing through patches of grey and cream. The thick paint is built up into ridges, so the surface looks old and weathered while the reds and greens stay rich.