21st May, 2024 12:00

Fine Photographica

 
Lot 232
 
Lot 232 - A MPP 'Mugshot' 5x4" Prison Camera
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A MPP 'Mugshot' 5x4" Prison Camera

1973-, green/grey, with Schneider Xenar f/4.7 135mm lens, body, VG, lens, G-VG, shutter fires but slowest speeds sticking, some light internal haze

Notes: The rear of the camera has a sliding selector on the rear labelled "Full Face" and "Profile", enabling it to produce two images on one 5x4" sheet. Integrated into the front of the body is a tape measure to calculate distance from the subject

Provenance: Written to the ground glass in black pen 'Strangeways 1973-1993'. Strangeways Prison, located in Manchester, England, holds a significant place in the annals of British penal history. Originally constructed in 1868, it stands as one of the most imposing Victorian-era prisons in the country. Its iconic neo-Gothic architecture has become synonymous with the cityscape.

Throughout its history, Strangeways has witnessed numerous reforms and controversies. Notably, the 1990 Strangeways Prison riot, one of the longest and most violent in British penal history, brought attention to issues of overcrowding and poor conditions within the prison system.

Despite its tumultuous past, Strangeways continues to operate as a high-security facility, housing a mix of inmates serving various sentences. Efforts have been made to modernize the institution, improving living conditions and implementing programs aimed at rehabilitation. Today, Strangeways Prison stands not only as a physical landmark but also as a symbol of the ongoing challenges and reforms within the British prison system.

Sold for £362

Result plus buyers premium


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1973-, green/grey, with Schneider Xenar f/4.7 135mm lens, body, VG, lens, G-VG, shutter fires but slowest speeds sticking, some light internal haze

Notes: The rear of the camera has a sliding selector on the rear labelled "Full Face" and "Profile", enabling it to produce two images on one 5x4" sheet. Integrated into the front of the body is a tape measure to calculate distance from the subject

Provenance: Written to the ground glass in black pen 'Strangeways 1973-1993'. Strangeways Prison, located in Manchester, England, holds a significant place in the annals of British penal history. Originally constructed in 1868, it stands as one of the most imposing Victorian-era prisons in the country. Its iconic neo-Gothic architecture has become synonymous with the cityscape.

Throughout its history, Strangeways has witnessed numerous reforms and controversies. Notably, the 1990 Strangeways Prison riot, one of the longest and most violent in British penal history, brought attention to issues of overcrowding and poor conditions within the prison system.

Despite its tumultuous past, Strangeways continues to operate as a high-security facility, housing a mix of inmates serving various sentences. Efforts have been made to modernize the institution, improving living conditions and implementing programs aimed at rehabilitation. Today, Strangeways Prison stands not only as a physical landmark but also as a symbol of the ongoing challenges and reforms within the British prison system.

Auction: Fine Photographica, 21st May, 2024

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