The image shows a man from the waist up, seated and looking to his right. He appears stern, with a strong jaw, pronounced cheekbones, deep-set eyes, and a furrowed brow. He has short, thin hair, a receding hairline, and sideburns. The man wears a dark robe with a white collar and holds a long pipe in his right hand. On the table next to him are three large books, some bound with leather straps. A crucifix stands to the left of the books. The background is a neutral, textured surface.