Various or unknown photographers appointed by New York City
Pretty Girl Charged with Clever Swindle: Women and Crime in Early 20th-Century New York City
The mug shot, or criminal portrait, is one of the earliest uses of police photography. Used primarily to identify known criminals, its use was not without controversy and mis-identification was common. In addition, mug shots were often used as a form of public shaming. These images capture a rich cross-section of the city’s population, depicting dress and social status in addition to possible criminal behavior. Focusing solely on women captured by police camera, this exhibit examines how these unique portraits offer a fascinating window into the lives of women in early 20th-century New York.
Organizations
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NYC Department of Records & Information Services
Established in 1977, the Department of Records and Information Services (DORIS) preserves and provides public access to historical and contemporary records and information about New York City government. They operate the Municipal Archives, the Municipal Library, and the Records Center.
Pretty Girl Charged with Clever Swindle
archive
:
2016
Featuring: Various Artists
Presented by: NYC Department of Records & Information Services
Locations
View Location Details Brooklyn Bridge Park – Emily Warren Roebling Plaza1 Water St
Brooklyn, NY 11201
This location is part of Brooklyn Bridge Park
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