A seated Native American man richly adorned with multiple layers of regalia is the subject of this tintype, housed in an embossed gilt frame with a rounded rectangular mat and floral and scroll border ornaments. The format and case style suggest a date in the 1860s to 1870s, consistent with the peak period of tintype portraiture. No photographer's imprint is visible.

The subject wears a dark garment with fringed shoulder decoration and elaborate layered ornamentation across the chest, including a large circular peace medal suspended from multiple strand necklaces, and what appears to be a substantial bear claw necklace below it. A bone or horn breastplate with vertical parallel tubes is visible at the lower torso. He holds a cylindrical object, possibly a ceremonial stick or club handle, in his left hand, and what appears to be animal fur or a hide in his right. His hair is pulled up at the crown, and his gaze meets the camera directly.

The combination of a government-issued peace medal worn over a bear claw necklace and bone breastplate indicates a subject of considerable standing within his community. Bear claw necklaces were among the most prestigious adornments in many Plains and Great Lakes tribes, typically reserved for warriors and leaders of proven distinction, and their pairing with a peace medal suggests a man who occupied both a diplomatic and a warrior role.