The statue was modeled and carved in Germany, but it is now held by the Elisabet Ney Museum in Austin, Texas; a marble version, completed by another sculptor, is installed in the Herrenchiemsee Palace in Bavaria.

[2]: 53 [3]: 36 Ney submitted a pencil sketch of her proposal to the King in September 1868, and Ludwig agreed to the portrait later that fall.

[2]: 67–68 In January 1871, before she could cut a final marble version of the portrait, Ney emigrated from Europe to the United States and left the plaster statue behind; a marble version was later produced by another sculptor in the 1890s and installed in the late King Ludwig's Linderhof Palace, later relocated to the unfinished northern staircase of Herrenchiemsee Palace.

The curling hair is swept back from the forehead, and the figure's facial expression is stern and intent, with the face slightly upturned and the eyes wide.

[2]: 68–69 Ludwig appears wearing the collar and cross of the Order of Saint Hubert,[3]: 37  and dressed in the elaborate costume of the Order of Saint George, of both of which the King was hereditary Grand Master; the fringed ceremonial coat and trailing cape are depicted in great detail, with brocade and embroidery engraved upon the statue in low relief.