One of the most influential American stand-up comedians and early provocateur Lenny Bruce is captured here, being searched by police following a performance and subsequent arrest in 1961. The arrest occurred after Bruce performed at the Jazz Workshop in San Francisco and remains one of the most iconic images of the comedian. His performance that evening got him arrested for charges of obscenity. Ultimately, Bruce was acquitted of these charges. However, this notoriety brought scrutiny from other law enforcement agencies and would result in his arrest for similar charges for the remainder of the decade. Bruce's controversial brand of comedy was groundbreaking and indicative of the cultural transformation that the United States was undergoing during the 1950s and 1960s. Bruce served in the United States Navy at the age of 16 and was active aboard the USS Brooklyn in Northern Africa and Italy. During his time in the Navy, he began performing for fellow sailors and would subsequently earn a dishonorable discharge in 1945. He served in the merchant marines during the Korean war before moving to New York City to pursue a career in comedy. The city had a thriving comedy scene, and at first, Bruce struggled to set himself apart from other generic performers. When Bruce changed his set from the more traditional style, others performed and started expressing his views and controversial thoughts, he began to get noticed. This photograph remains one of the most recognizable portrayals of this influential performer who created a lasting mark on American culture. Additional Details ------------------------------ Bullet point: HISTORIC PHOTO REPRODUCTION: You?ll love this high quality historic reproduction of 1961 Lenny Bruce Photo Print. Our museum quality prints are archival grade, which means it will look great and last without fading for over 100 years. Our print to order photos are made in the USA and each print is inspected for quality. This historic photo is a perfect addition to your themed decor. Vintage photos look great in the home, study or office. They make a perfect gift as well. Product description: One of the most influential American stand-up comedians and early provocateur Lenny Bruce is captured here, being searched by police following a performance and subsequent arrest in 1961. The arrest occurred after Bruce performed at the Jazz Workshop in San Francisco and remains one of the most iconic images of the comedian. His performance that evening got him arrested for charges of obscenity. Ultimately, Bruce was acquitted of these charges. However, this notoriety brought scrutiny from other law enforcement agencies and would result in his arrest for similar charges for the remainder of the decade. Bruce's controversial brand of comedy was groundbreaking and indicative of the cultural transformation that the United States was undergoing during the 1950s and 1960s. Bruce served in the United States Navy at the age of 16 and was active aboard the USS Brooklyn in Northern Africa and Italy. During his time in the Navy, he began performing for fellow sailors and would subsequently earn a dishonorable discharge in 1945. He served in the merchant marines during the Korean war before moving to New York City to pursue a career in comedy. The city had a thriving comedy scene, and at first, Bruce struggled to set himself apart from other generic performers. When Bruce changed his set from the more traditional style, others performed and started expressing his views and controversial thoughts, he began to get noticed. This photograph remains one of the most recognizable portrayals of this influential performer who created a lasting mark on American culture. Style: Retro