Birilay. Henri, Marc, Julien. 46 ans, né à Chartres (Eure & Loir). Journalier. Anarchiste. 11/3/94. 1894

This is an albumen silver print of “Birilay. Henri, Marc, Julien” made by Alphonse Bertillon in 1894. The photograph is characterized by its stark composition and sepia tones, evoking a sense of archival solemnity. The subject, positioned squarely in the frame, confronts the viewer with a directness that is unsettling. Bertillon was interested in systems of classification and identification. Here, the mugshot, taken with rigorous attention to detail, aims to strip the individual of any unique characteristics, reducing him to a set of measurable attributes. The framing is tight, emphasizing the face and upper body, while the number inscribed on the image further dehumanizes the subject, turning him into a mere statistic within the carceral system. The photograph's power lies in its ability to reveal the intersection of science, power, and representation. The use of photography as a tool for surveillance and control raises questions about the gaze, the construction of identity, and the role of institutions in shaping our understanding of the individual.