This is a sculptural half-length bust of the pioneering African American Shakespearean actor Ira Aldridge in his most celebrated role, Othello. The figure is shown hooded and wrapped in a heavy, deeply modeled cream-white robe. The face and outstretched hand are finished in a dark patinated bronze tone, with a closely textured beard and a contemplative downcast expression. In his extended palm he holds a white cloth, apparently the handkerchief central to the tragedy's plot. The cast surface is painted in glossy cream and dark bronze. It is mounted on a rectangular walnut base with an engraved brass plaque reading: "Ira Frederich Aldridge / In the Roll of Othello / 1804-1867." 20" Tall