A bearded Union soldier in a light-colored sack coat with visible button closure holds a brass bugle or similar valved brass instrument cradled across his lap, the bell of the instrument angled upward to his left. The ruby ambrotype process gives the image a warm reddish cast characteristic of early Civil War-era production, and the soldier's kepicap with a dark band sits squarely on his head. His expression is direct and composed, and shoulder seams on the coat are consistent with early-war volunteer uniform issue rather than later standardized manufacture. Applied color is visible on the instrument, reinforcing the early date.

Musicians were essential to Civil War field operations, regulating march cadence, signaling maneuvers, and directing troops in battle, and bugle players held a particularly critical role in cavalry and infantry units alike. The early-war uniform details and ruby ambrotype process together suggest a date of 1861 to 1862, consistent with a Massachusetts volunteer regiment.

The image is housed in a leather case with an embossed scrollwork and diamond cartouche cover and a gilt brass mat with floral corner ornaments framing an oval aperture. No photographer's imprint is visible. The tintype measures ninth plate format.

From the collection of James Lee Soffer