Two unidentified Union soldiers stand together in this quarter plate tintype, housed in an embossed gilt frame with an oval mat bearing a beaded inner border and floral corner ornaments. The image dates to the Civil War era, approximately 1861 to 1865, consistent with the format and military dress. No photographer's imprint is visible.

The soldier at left wears a light-colored uniform jacket with a row of buttons down the front, white crossed shoulder belts with a rectangular belt plate, a waist belt, canteen and a forage cap with a visible numeral 3 on the badge. The soldier at right wears a dark frock coat with two rows of buttons, a waist belt, and a forage cap, and rests his left hand on the shoulder of his companion. A painted or outdoor backdrop with indistinct structures is faintly visible behind them.

Paired soldier portraits were among the most sought-after Civil War tintype subjects, frequently depicting brothers, messmates, or close comrades. The contrast in uniform styles between the two men, one in light infantry dress with full accoutrements and one in a darker frock coat, suggests they may have served in different capacities or branches within the Union Army.