Quarter plate tintype studio portrait of a Civil War–era soldier seated in a relaxed, informal pose. The young man sits sideways on a simple wooden chair, one arm draped casually over the chair back, conveying an ease and familiarity that contrasts with the rigidity seen in most wartime portraits. He wears a standard Union uniform with a dark forage cap, buttoned jacket, trousers, and tall boots, with a visible watch chain crossing the front of his vest or jacket. The softly painted studio backdrop and natural posture give the image a personal, almost off-duty character rather than a formal military presentation.

The tintype is housed in a complete period hinged case with an ornate gilt brass mat featuring floral and scrollwork motifs. The case preserves the photograph well and reinforces its original mid-19th-century presentation. No photographer’s imprint or identifying inscription is present, and the soldier remains unidentified.

Images showing this level of informality are less common than strictly posed military portraits and offer a more human, intimate view of Civil War soldiers during their service, likely intended for family rather than official record.