1/9th plate tintype portrait depicting two young U.S. soldiers in uniform during the Indian Wars period. The sitters are shown posed together in a studio setting, one seated and one standing, with the standing figure resting his arm familiarly on the other’s shoulder. The relaxed posture and physical closeness suggest camaraderie rather than a formal regimental portrait, a quality seen in many privately commissioned soldier images of the era.

Both men wear regulation enlisted uniforms with button-front jackets and matching trousers consistent with post–Civil War U.S. Army issue. One soldier displays a single chevron on the sleeve, indicating non-commissioned rank. The uniforms, styling, and tintype format place the image squarely in the late 1860s to early 1870s, during the height of U.S. military campaigns in the American West.

The image is housed in a period black leatherette case with embossed scroll decoration, gilt brass mat, and red textile pad. The case shows expected edge wear and surface abrasion consistent with age, while the tintype itself remains clear with good contrast. A strong and evocative example of Western military portraiture, documenting the personal side of U.S. soldiers during the Indian Wars era.