Beggar Man, Paris by Gordon Parks (1950)

The photograph titled “Beggar Man, Paris” was captured by the artist Gordon Parks in the year 1950. It depicts a man sitting on the side of a Parisian street, playing an accordion. The man, presumably the beggar referenced in the title, is wearing a dark cap and a jacket, and despite his seated position, he is engagingly performing music. He appears to be an elderly individual with evident facial lines and an intense expression that could be interpereted as either deep concentration or a hint of sadness. The accordion he plays is large, suggesting that his music is an important part of how he interacts with the world around him. In the background, there are people passing by, including a woman who seems to be looking at him, though everyone maintains their own pace without stopping.

The black and white image gives a timeless quality to the photograph, capturing not only the plight of the man but also the broader urban atmosphere of Paris in that era. It reflects the social realities of the time, evoking emotions and suggesting a narrative about the individual’s life and the larger society.

Other Photographs from Gordon Parks

Scroll to Top