This striking portrait shows an intimate pairing of a rugged figure and a black bear in close proximity. The composition is tightly cropped, creating an intense sense of closeness between the two subjects against a dark background. The figure has flowing white hair and beard, weathered skin with deep wrinkles, and holds a lit cigarette. They wear what appears to be a light-colored jacket or shirt. The bear's face is rendered in remarkable detail, with its glossy black fur, distinctive snout, and penetrating eyes creating a sense of intelligence and presence. The lighting is dramatic, highlighting the textures of both the bear's fur and the figure's facial features. A small cup or vessel is visible in the lower portion of the image. The overall mood is one of unlikely companionship and mutual understanding between two beings typically considered natural adversaries.