Alphonse Bertillon created anthropometry, a detailed identification system based on physical measurements, in 1882. The card accompanying this mug shot shows some of these distinct measurements taken upon arrest. The Bertillon system was replaced by fingerprinting not long after it was widely adopted. (Courtesy Steidl & Partners Publishing)

Mug Shot Gallery

Alphonse Bertillon created anthropometry, a detailed identification system based on physical measurements, in 1882. The card accompanying this mug shot shows some of these distinct measurements taken upon arrest. The Bertillon system was replaced by fingerprinting not long after it was widely adopted.

Credit: Courtesy Steidl & Partners Publishing