The image shows a seated woman in a half-body portrait. She is positioned sideways but turns her head to face the camera. Her facial features are strong and pronounced, with high cheekbones and a determined expression. She wears a clean white bonnet on her head. Her clothing consists of a dark dress with a white shawl draped over her shoulders. The shawl has a lace fringe. The woman is holding some knitting or crochet work in her hands, with a ball of yarn on her lap. Next to her is a small table covered with a patterned cloth, upon which are a vase of flowers and what appears to be a few books. The background is plain and textured. The bottom of the image bears the caption "I Sell the Shadow to Support the Substance," followed by the name "Sojourner Truth."