$375
[Hofzinser] Das Wort (The Word) book test. Fredo Marvelli, ca. 1940. Set of four specially printed German language books, as issued, accompanied by four contemporary but ungimmicked volumes. In presentation, a spectator was instructed to choose one of the eight books, to turn to any page in that book, look at any line on the page, and concentrate on any word on that line. The performer then unerringly divined the thought-of word, as well as the rest of the line on which the spectator was concentrating. The method for accomplishing this feat was devised by J.N. Hofzinser, the great Austrian conjurer of the 19th century. All books hardbound and 8vo. Includes necessary duplicate pages and original instructions, as issued. Very good condition. Scarce. Marvelli was instructed in the performance of this and other Hofzinser effects by his friend Ottokar Fischer, whose book about Hofzinser's magic (Zauberkünste) Marvelli also published. As originally issued, the set included four specially-printed books and a duplicate set of pages for the performance of the effect. Four contemporary (to the set) and ungimmicked books were added to this original set by the well-known German mentalist Ted Lesley, from whose collection the trick was once part of.
Auctioneer:
Potter & Potter
Date:
2011-01-29
