$375
Cardini (Richard Valentine Pitchford). Cardini. A Deft Manipulator. Kenton, Scioto Sign Co., ca. 1928. Two-color offset window card (14 x 22") bearing a ½ length offset portrait of Cardini, "The Suave Deceiver" at its center. Minor toning and wear at extremities not affecting image; good condition. Cardini was, arguably, the most successful — and consequently the most imitated — magician of his generation. His manipulative act, perfect in form, technique and content, was so well-liked and pitch perfect that it kept him booked in theatres, nighclubs, hotel ballrooms, on cruise ships, and virtually every important venue for a career that spanned decades. Despite a historically significant career, because Cardini was a variety performer and not an illusionist or theatre-filler like Blackstone, Thurston or Houdini, no full-color lithographs advertising his appearances were produced. He was the star of variety performances and topped cabaret bills; consequently, posters of any sort advertising his appearances are scarce.
Auctioneer:
Potter & Potter
Date:
2011-03-26
