$325
Goldston, Will (Wolf Goldstein). Challenge. Carl Devo. Blackpool: Railway Guide Office, 1903. Letterpress broadside advertising a £100 challenge to Carl Devo (Goldston’s stage name). The money will be “given to a local charity” if Devo cannot escape from handcuffs or a “solid box, constructed of iron and steel.” 11 x 33 1/4". Significant restoration throughout image and across borders; C. A fascinating broadside from a historical perspective in that Goldston went on to be one of Harry Houdini’s close personal friends. Here, as Carl Devo, he is among the dozens upon dozens of imitators of the great handcuff king, duplicating his escape feats and the challenge-type performance that helped make Houdini famous.
Auctioneer:
Potter & Potter
Date:
2016-06-25
