Billon. Gabriel, André, Adolphe. 20 ans, né à Boulogne /s/Seine. Typographe. Outrages. 14/8/93. 1893

This photograph, taken in 1893 by Alphonse Bertillon, is a stark portrayal of Gabriel Billon, a 20-year-old typographer arrested for 'outrages'. The most striking symbol here is the mugshot itself. It represents a method of control and documentation, a way to categorize individuals. This relates back to ancient physiognomy, the belief that one's character is visible in their physical features. Think of the Roman busts, aiming to capture not just likeness but also virtue or vice. Yet, unlike those sculptures made to celebrate noblemen, the modern mugshot, with its standardized format, sought to strip away individuality. It’s a fascinating shift—from celebrating unique traits to enforcing conformity. But what does it say about our collective memory that we continue to seek meaning in faces, even those captured in moments of disgrace? The human need to understand, categorize, and ultimately judge is a powerful force. This image is both a document of its time and a mirror reflecting enduring aspects of human psychology.