Drunk Tank 1950

Weegee, a pioneer of street photography, captured the gritty reality of life in 1950s New York with his photograph "Drunk Tank". The stark black and white image showcases a man, slumped against the bars of a jail cell, his face obscured by the shadows. The composition emphasizes the starkness of the cell and the sense of isolation and despair of the individual. Weegee's work is known for its candid, often voyeuristic approach, presenting a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the underbelly of the city, highlighting the social issues of the time.