David C. Gross, an identified Iowa Civil War soldier, is portrayed in this albumen CDV produced during the 1860s. The photograph is set within an elaborately printed gilt ornamental oval border on the mount face, a decorative treatment popular during the war years. No photographer's imprint appears on the reverse.

Gross wears a dark Union enlisted sack coat with a double row of large eagle buttons running down the front and a forage cap with a visible brass insignia on the band. His full beard is neatly shaped, and his direct, steady gaze fills the oval vignette portrait format. The printed border features scrollwork, tassels, and a pointed crown motif framing the image.

The pencil inscription on the reverse reads "David C. Gross," followed by what appears to be "Co. 46" and a partial word that may read "late" followed by additional text that is only partially legible, suggesting a company or regimental designation consistent with an Iowa volunteer infantry unit.

The reverse carries a handwritten pencil inscription identifying the subject and unit detail, with no photographer's imprint visible.

From the collection of James Lee Soffer