Wanted Notice / Mug Shots

Early 20th century Bureau of Identification, Department of Police City of Chicago mug shots, gelatin silver photographs affixed to a vintage Wanted Notice. The use of photography in the justice system became prevalent later in the 19th century, as they felt the documentation of physical traits could help predict criminal tendencies. Alphonse Bertillion, a clerk in the Parisian police department developed the mug shot, a format which features a frontal and profile image of the subject. Coupled with a system of identifying facial measurements, this tracking system was adopted by the Chicago Police Department in 1894.

Notice for "Pasquale Mentscola...for Entering with intent to steal and larceny. He was paroled September 5th, 1922," with instructions to "Communicate Any Information to J. C. Coulter, Parole Officer, Western State Penitentiary, Pittsburg, PA."

Measuring approximately 8.5 x 11, this notice exhibits the expected age wear, with toning, folds, faded print and tears along the edges.