$2,600
Anderson, Professor. (John Henry Anderson) Professor Anderson for a Few Nights Longer. [London], 1857. Striking two-color letterpress broadside bearing a central woodcut of Anderson holding a magnet over the head of a young boy. The balance of the poster is filled with humorous and descriptive text. 20 x 30". Repairs to left margin not affecting text, old central fold; A-. Arguably the greatest self-promoter in the history of magic, Anderson (1814 – 1874) found innumerable ways to keep his name before the public and advertise his show. He frequently used the medium of the gift show – as advertised here – to draw patrons to theatre, but he also had pats of butter with his portrait on them distributed to homes and taverns near where he was appearing, among other promotional devices. When necessary, he fictionalized stories of his accomplishments, but more often found clever ways to word his advertising, or create a startling happening in the towns where he performed. He also fancied himself an actor, though his prowess as a thespian was considerably less than his ability as a conjurer. He frequently performed the lead role in Robb Roy, and built two theaters which he hoped to operate in perpetuity, but both of them cost him his fortune. Known far and wide as the “Great Wizard of the North,” Anderson was Scottish by birth, toured the British Isles constantly, and also brought his show to Canada, America, and Hawaii around the time of the Civil War.
Auctioneer:
Potter & Potter
Date:
2016-06-25
