An unidentified man photographed in work attire sits in a full three-quarter view that was uncommon for the daguerreian era, where bust portraits were the standard convention. The image is a sixth plate daguerreotype, hand-applied tinting visible across the white garments, and dates most likely to the early to mid 1850s based on the case style and mat design. No photographer's imprint is visible on the mat or case interior.

The sitter wears a loose white work shirt with a pleated bib front and high collar, paired with light-colored trousers, presenting him in occupational rather than formal dress. His dark hair is parted and swept back, and he wears a short, neatly trimmed beard. He sits with his left hand resting on what appears to be a dark upholstered chair arm and his right hand folded in his lap, meeting the camera with a steady, composed expression.

The full-figure seated pose in working clothes is a deliberate choice that sets this portrait apart from the typical mid-century studio convention. The leather case features an embossed scrollwork and cross-form pattern on both covers with gold-edged borders, and the interior pad is crimson velvet with a deeply embossed floral and foliate design.

The daguerreotype is housed in a sixth plate leather case. No inscription, label, or photographer's imprint is present.