The portrait shows Friedrich Creuzer at the age of around 50 – roughly 15 years after Karoline von Günderrode’s death. It depicts him not as a scholar, but as a reserved man in middle-class attire without medals or adornments. The fine pastel technique underscores the private character of the work. The artist draws attention to Creuzer’s face, emphasizing his direct gaze and not seeking to idealize his distinctive features.