Weegee (1899–1968) - Bowery Drunk Tank

Weegee (Arthur Fellig, 1899–1968)
Bowery Drunk Tank
c. 1940–1950

Vintage gelatin silver print from the period (vintage gelatin silver print) with a glossy surface.
Dimensions: approx. 25 × 20 cm.
Unique copy, not editioned, from the press distribution circuit of the time.

Central figure of New York photojournalism, Weegee established himself with a direct approach, capturing scenes of rare intensity at the heart of urban and institutional reality.

This photograph, taken in a psychiatric ward, depicts a raw, candid situation. The composition, structured around the movement of the main figure and the frontal gaze in the background, creates a narrative tension characteristic of his work. The use of flash and the strong contrast enhance the image’s visual impact.

On the verso: stamp “Credit Photo by Weegee” and mention “Please credit Weegee from Photo-Representatives,” confirming its status as an era print. Handwritten annotations visible.

Overall good condition. Some craquelure. Signs of wear, light marks and edge wear, consistent with age and the nature of a press print.

A representative work of Weegee’s output, sought after for its documentary strength and its immediately identifiable aesthetic.