Karl Friedrich von Steinmetz (1796–1877) was a Prussian Generalfeldmarschall whose portrait is preserved in this albumen CDV, likely dating to around 1870. The subject is captured in a three-quarter bust view set within a vignette oval, and no photographer's imprint is visible on the mount. The image presents an elderly officer of evident seniority, consistent with Steinmetz's appearance during the Franco-Prussian War period.

He wears a dark Prussian military tunic with epaulettes bearing officer's pips at both shoulders, and a cross-shaped decoration, consistent with the Pour le Mérite, is pinned prominently at the center of his chest. His white hair is tousled, his heavy-lidded gaze is directed slightly off-axis, and a short white walrus mustache defines his lower face. The card mount features a double ruled border in olive and cream tones with a pale blue outer edge.

Steinmetz earned the epithet "Lion of Nachod" for his victories during the Seven Weeks' War, and he went on to command one of three Prussian armies assembled on the Rhine for the Franco-Prussian War. Prince William had personally decorated him with the Pour le Mérite, the cross of which appears visibly worn in this portrait.

The reverse bears two pencil inscriptions: "Gc Steinmetz" in a cursive hand above, and "Steinmetz" printed in block letters below.