$9,000
[Australia], ca. 1925. Two-color broadside features a photographic portrait of the famous Jewish-American magician best known for his impromptu miracles, and for performing before monarchs, presidents, and society elites. 14 ¾ x 34 ¼". Minor repairs throughout image; B. The only known example of this portrait. As Ricky Jay wrote in Learned Pigs and Fireproof Women, “…Malini was the embodiment of what a magician should be – not a performer who requires a fully equipped stage, elaborate apparatus, elephants, or handcuffs to accomplish his mysteries, but one who can stand a few inches from you and with a borrowed coin, a lemon, a knife, a tumbler, or a pack of cards convince you he performs miracles.” Indeed, Malini (1873 – 1942) built his reputation on impromptu miracles, performing for socialites, heads of state, monarchs, and even tribal leaders in a long career that took him around the globe. From biting the buttons off of Senator Mark Hanna’s coat on the steps of the Capitol building (and restoring them), to transforming roasted chickens into live, flapping birds at the center of a high society dinner party, Malini made his name by surprising his audiences with unexpected moments of wonder. Posters advertising Malini are truly rare, with only one other commercially printed advertisement for him known.
Auctioneer:
Potter & Potter
Date:
2017-02-04
