Book Review Summary: Bellocq: Photographs from Storyville, the Red-Light District of New Orleans

Introduction

"Bellocq: Photographs from Storyville, the Red-Light District of New Orleans" is an expanded and revised edition of a famous book of portraits of prostitutes in turn-of-the-century New Orleans. This new edition includes 52 tritone photos printed in a large format, capturing the essence of a bygone era. The text from the original edition, written by John Szarkowski, former director of photography at the Museum of Modern Art, remains intact, accompanied by a new introduction by Susan Sontag. This book has garnered significant attention from readers, who find it both captivating and enlightening.

About John Szarkowski

John Szarkowski, the author of this book, was an influential photographer, curator, historian, and critic. He served as the Director of Photography at the Museum of Modern Art from 1962 to 1991. Szarkowski's expertise and passion for photography have left an indelible mark on the field, shaping its direction and promoting the work of numerous photographers. His contributions to the museum and the photography world have made him a revered figure in the art world.

Analysis of Views

Historical Significance: Readers find the historical significance of Bellocq's photographs to be one of the book's most compelling aspects. The images provide a glimpse into a time and place that has long since disappeared, allowing readers to immerse themselves in a bygone era. The portraits capture the essence of Storyville, the red-light district of New Orleans, and offer a unique perspective on its inhabitants and their daily lives.
Artistic Merit: The artistic merit of Bellocq's photographs is widely praised by readers. The carefully posed images showcase the subjects with both intimacy and enigma, inviting viewers to reflect upon their lives and circumstances. The photographs are reproduced in large format, allowing for a more immersive experience and highlighting the intricate details and textures found within them. The artistry of Bellocq's work is undeniable, making this book a must-read for those interested in photography and its ability to evoke emotion.
Humanity and Empathy: Many readers find Bellocq's photographs to be surprisingly humane and empathetic. Despite being taken during a time when prostitution was legal and socially accepted, the images convey a sense of vulnerability and humanity in the subjects. Bellocq's ability to capture the individuality and personality of each woman shines through in his work, creating a connection between the viewer and the subject that transcends time and place.
Visual Aesthetics: The visual aesthetics of Bellocq's photographs are widely admired by readers. The use of lighting, composition, and contrast creates a captivating visual experience that draws viewers in. The images are rich in detail and texture, with intricate backgrounds and clothing that invite close examination. The large format printing in this edition allows for a more immersive experience, further emphasizing the beauty and intricacy of the photographs.
Cultural Significance: Bellocq's photographs have become an important cultural artifact, symbolizing the story of Storyville and its inhabitants. They serve as a reminder of a time when prostitution was a legal profession and a reflection of society's attitudes towards sex work. The photographs offer insights into the lives of women who worked in this industry and provide a glimpse into the brothels that once existed in Storyville. They also highlight the importance of preserving cultural artifacts and documenting historical events for future generations.

Reasons for Recommendation

Historical Context: The historical context provided by John Szarkowski adds depth to the book, offering readers a deeper understanding of the time period and society in which Bellocq's photographs were taken. Szarkowski's expertise as a curator and historian brings historical events to life, providing readers with valuable insights into the social, economic, and political factors that shaped Storyville and its inhabitants.
Artistic Excellence: Bellocq's photographs are recognized for their artistic excellence, showcasing his skill as a photographer. The large format printing in this edition allows for a more immersive experience, highlighting the intricate details and textures found within each image. The reproductions are faithful to the original plates, preserving Bellocq's vision and ensuring that his artistic legacy is preserved for future generations.
Human Connection: The human connection found in Bellocq's photographs resonates with readers on a personal level. The portraits capture the individuality and personality of each subject, creating a sense of empathy and understanding that transcends time and place. Readers find themselves drawn to these women and their stories, forming a deep emotional connection with them despite being separated by a century of history.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Quality Concerns: Some readers have expressed concerns about the quality of their copies of the book, noting issues such as damaged pages or poor printing quality. While these concerns are relatively rare, they do impact the overall reading experience for some readers who prioritize having a pristine copy of the book.
Limited Availability: Due to its out-of-print status, obtaining a copy of "Bellocq: Photographs from Storyville" can be challenging for some readers. While there are used copies available online or at specialty bookstores, finding a new edition at an affordable price may require patience or persistence in searching for it. This limited availability may deter some readers from exploring this book fully.

Conclusion

"Bellocq: Photographs from Storyville, the Red-Light District of New Orleans" is a captivating book that offers readers an immersive journey into a bygone era through stunning portraits of prostitutes in turn-of-the-century New Orleans. The historical significance, artistic merit, humanity, visual aesthetics, and cultural significance of Bellocq's photographs make this book a must-read for those interested in photography, history, and social commentary. While some readers may encounter quality concerns or face challenges in obtaining a copy due to its out-of-print status, those who persevere will find themselves rewarded with an unforgettable reading experience that transcends time and place.