Complexes of Mn(II), Fe(III), Co(II), Ni(II) and Zn(II) with an intermediate Schiff base derived from ninhydrin and α,L-alanine (indane-1,3-dione-2-imine-N-2-propionate, IDIP) were successfully synthesized. All complexes were distinctly colored and were characterized by elemental analysis, molar conductance, magnetic susceptibility, infrared and electronic spectral studies. The ligand (Schiff base) was shown to behave as a monobasic tridentate ONO donor. The Mn(II) and Fe(III) complexes contain only one ligand molecule plus water and chloride(s) per metal ion, while all the others contain two ligand molecules per metal ion. An octahedral geometry is proposed for the metal complexes.