an1mal.netlify.app

<ul><li><p>FEBRUARY 2014</p><p>NEIL TOBIN, NECROMANCERPage 36</p></li><li><p> FEBRUARY 2014 - M-U-M Magazine 3 </p></li><li><p>MAGIC - UNITY - MIGHT Editor</p><p>Michael Close</p><p>Editor EmeritusDavid Goodsell</p><p>Associate Editor W.S. Duncan </p><p>Proofreader &amp; Copy EditorLindsay Smith</p><p>Art DirectorLisa Close</p><p>PublisherSociety of American Magicians, </p><p>6838 N. Alpine Dr. Parker, CO 80134 Copyright 2012 </p><p>Subscription is through membership in the Society and annual dues of $65, of </p><p>which $40 is for 12 issues of M-U-M. All inquiries concerning membership, change of address, and missing or replacement issues </p><p>should be addressed to: </p><p>Manon Rodriguez, National AdministratorP.O. Box 505, Parker, CO 80134 </p><p>manon@magic.bzSkype: manonadmin</p><p>Phone: 303-362-0575Fax: 303-362-0424</p><p>Send assembly reports to:assemblyreports@gmail.com</p><p>For advertising information, reservations, and placement contact:</p><p>Cinde SandersM-U-M Advertising ManagerEmail: ads@magicsam.comTelephone: 214-902-9200</p><p>Editorial contributions and correspondence concerning all content and advertising </p><p>should be addressed to the editor:Michael Close - Email: mumeditor@gmail.com</p><p>Phone: 317-456-7234Submissions for the magazine will only be </p><p>accepted by email or fax. </p><p>VISIT THE S.A.M. WEB SITEwww.magicsam.com</p><p>To access Members Only pages:Enter your Name and Membership number exactly as it appears on your membership card. </p><p>4 M-U-M Magazine - FEBRUARY 2014</p></li><li><p>FEBRUARY 2014</p><p>M-U-M (ISSN 00475300 USPS 323580) is published monthly for $40 per year by The Society of American Magicians, 6838 N. Alpine Dr., Parker, CO 80134 . Periodical postage paid at Parker, CO and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to M-U-M, c/o Manon Rodriguez, P.O. Box 505, Parker, CO 80134.</p><p> Volume 103 Number 9</p><p>THIS MONTHS FEATURES28 Nielsen Gallery by Tom Ewing30 Hit the Road by Scott Alexander32 Not Just Kid Stuff Jim Kleefeld36 COVER STORY by Christian Painter42 For Your Consideration by George Parker44 Illusions of Grandeur by David Seebach46 The High Road by Mick Ayres48 I Left My Cards at Home by Steve Marshall50 Focus on Funny by Norm Barnhart51 Tech Tricks Bruce Kalver52 Ebook Nook: Spectacle by Stephen Minch56 The Dotted Line by Don Theo III58 Cheats and Deceptions Antonio M. Cabral60 Informed Opinion New Product Reviews 68 Salon de Magie by Ken Klosterman69 Basil the Baffling Alan Wassilak70 The Deans Diary by George Schindler</p><p>MAGAZINEM-U-M</p><p> FEBRUARY 2014 - M-U-M Magazine 5 </p><p>cover story page 36</p><p>Cover Photo by Jonathan Cohon/JHC Productions</p><p>S.A.M. NEWS 6 From the Editors Desk 8 From the Presidents Desk11 M-U-M Assembly News23 Broken Wands24 National Council Minutes (draft)26 Good Cheer List31 Newsworthy69 Our Advertisers</p><p>68</p><p>48</p><p>28</p></li><li><p>Editors Desk</p><p>Congratulations to compeer Neil Tobin, whose show Supernatural Chicago celebrates its tenth anniversary on February 14, 2014. Neil has put an enormous amount of effort, energy, and creativity into this show, which competes for its audience in one of the hippest cities in the United States. Christian Painter talked to Neil and learned how the show came about, and most important, how it continues to draw customers in the Windy City.</p><p>MORE ON T-TAGI received a very complimentary email from Max Maven </p><p>concerning my trick Topsy-turvy Automatic Gambler, which appeared in last months issue. Max wrote, This is one of the best compositions Ive encountered in a long time. Congratu-lations. Max also provided some history for the fake turnover move. Max marketed an effect called Quadrophonic (sic) in 1976 that used the fake turnover without the right-hand cover. Nick Trost had apparently come up with a similar move, possibly in the early 70s.</p><p>If you skipped over my trick last month, you might want to go back and give it try. If you read through the trick but were put off by the two relatively simple sleights (the fake turnover and Lennart Greens Angle Separation), I have good news for you. Shortly after coming up with the method published last month, I came up with a method that is entirely self-working; there are no sleights required. There are trade-offs, however. The deck must be stacked prior to the performance and the dealing procedure takes a little more time. Here are the details. (This will only make sense if youve read through the original routine.)</p><p>Remove all the Tens, Jacks, and Queens. Place one Ten, one Jack, and one Queen aside. Shuffle up the remaining nine cards and place them face down in a pile. Remove all the Aces and Kings. Shuffle them and drop them on the Ten/Jack/ Queen pile on the table. Place the remainder of the deck on that combined pile, place the single Ten, Jack, and Queen on top, and case the deck. All this is done prior to the performance. </p><p>To perform, remove the deck from the case, cut it in half, and give it a legitimate riffle shuffle. If you can, keep the top three cards on top. This is a convincing shuffle (because its a real one), but it also serves the purpose of distributing the bottom seventeen cards up through the deck while maintaining their relative order. (This property of the riffle shuffle was exploited by Charles T. Jordan.) Pick up the deck and spread it face up between your hands. Throw out the Aces, Kings, Queens, Jacks, and Tens as you come to them, tossing them into a face-down pile. Do not toss out the top three cards. Place the rest of the deck aside.</p><p>Pick up the pile and give it a red/black overhand shuffle. (Simply overhand shuffle the pile, running cards singly as you near the middle of the pile.) This brings the Ten/Jack/Queen group to the top. Spread off nine cards and hand them to spectator two to shuffle. Give the other group to spectator one.</p><p>Take back the group from spectator one; drop spectator </p><p>twos group on them and immediately give the pile a red/black overhand shuffle, which brings the Ace/King group to the top. Spread off seven cards and use them to flip the lower group face up. Drop the face-down cards on top.</p><p>Now you explain that you will deal three hands of poker, to player one (spectator one), player two (spectator two), and player three (yourself). Explain that because this is Topsy-turvy Poker, the pile is turned over before each card is dealt. For player one, the pile is turned over once. Do so, and deal the top card to player one. (This will be an Ace or a King, the Jonah card.) For player two, you turn the pile over twice. (This brings the Ten/Jack/Queen group back to the top.) Deal the top card to player two. For player three, you turn over the pile three times. (This brings the Ace/King group to the top.) Deal the top card to yourself.</p><p>Now, just follow the above procedure until players one and two have five cards, and youre in the position of having three cards face up in your left hand. Finish as explained in the original version. I find it amusing that this dealing procedure automati-cally delivers the proper set of cards to each player, and does not require any fake turnovers. You achieve quite a remarkable poker deal without any real sleight of hand.</p><p>PASSAGESThe world of close-up magic recently lost four prominent </p><p>practitioners, whose passing should be recorded here.David Bendix, the creator of the Bendix Bombshell Wallet </p><p>and a contributor to many magic publications, died on August 8, 2013. Mr. Bendix had no surviving family members, but through the generosity of friends was interred in Colon, Michigan, on October 31, 2013. I never met David, but I became aware of him through his articles in Jon Racherbaumers Hierophant. He had a sardonic sense of humor, and as Roy Johnson wrote, His approach is so sincere and serious that one has been led up the garden path without realizing it. David Bendix was seventy-eight.</p><p>Bob Knigge, a former member of I.B.M. Ring 58, died on December 22, 2013. Bob was a retired police officer and an ac-complished musician. (He played bass for the Everly Brothers in their prime.) It is likely that you perform one of Bobs magic creations without realizing who came up with the idea: Bob in-troduced Mini-Pearl, the formation of a poodle from a string of pearls, to the magic community. </p><p>Karl Norman, a popular expert close-up and bar magician who worked at Eddie Fechters legendary Forks Hotel in Cheektowaga, New York, died December 25, 2013 at his home in Kenmore, New York. In the late 1960s, Mr. Norman became a famous bar magician at Fechters Forks Hotel. He was known for his great comedic sense and powerful magic. In 1982 he was presented the first Fechters Finger Flicking Frolic Award for the person who contributed the most to that years gathering. More recently, he was honored when his name was added to Gene Gordons name as the official name of I.B.M. Ring 12. Karl was ninety-five.</p><p>Roderick William Dee died on December 30, 2013, after a long battle with cancer. His friends knew him as Rod the Hop. Rod was an expert practitioner of gambling-related techniques; at some of these techniques he was the best Ive ever seen. In one of the most extraordinary afternoons Ive ever spent, I watched Rod flabbergast a group of some of the best magicians in the world with his card table artifice. Rod had a good heart and a cheerful spirit. Las Vegas wont be the same without him. Rod was fifty-six. </p><p>6 M-U-M Magazine - FEBRUARY 2014</p><p>Michael Close</p><p>Pho</p><p>to b</p><p>y fi</p><p>veby</p><p>phot</p><p>ogra</p><p>phy.</p><p>com</p></li><li><p> FEBRUARY 2014 - M-U-M Magazine 7 </p></li><li><p>Dal Sanders</p><p>Presidents Desk</p><p>I spent most of January on the road visiting many of our great S.A.M. Assemblies and even a couple of outstanding I.B.M. Rings. I went to Oklahoma City and Omaha and then I did a little New England visit of Massachusetts and Connecticut. Of course, I also went to a couple of warmer places. I visited the Fort Worth Magicians Club officer installation banquet and visited other magic friends across the country. Basically I went wherever there are magicians. This month I will go to Magi-Fest in Columbus, Ohio, and the Blackpool Magic Convention in England. I have to admit that I am always happy to get back home to Texas, not just because the weather is warmer, but also because Texas is so weird (and I love weird).</p><p>Im not being negative about my fellow Texans; we all know were weird. The motto of our state capital is Keep Austin Weird. Weird is good. Weird is positive. Weird is what sets us apart from others. Take coffee shops for example. Lots of places serve great coffee, but when Starbucks entered the market, it was weird. They played hip music, offered Wi-Fi, and had unusual seating arrangements and weird dcor. Even though everything from coffee to Wi-Fi was overpriced, we embraced their weird-ness and adopted it as our own.</p><p>Being a member of The Society of American Magicians is weird. We were the very first magic organization. In 1902 ma-gicians in New York got together and formed an organization to elevate and advance the art of magic. No group of magicians had ever done anything like this before. While many magicians immediately joined the new organization, many others avoided it. They thought the idea of magicians working together was weird and unusual. Eventually the S.A.M. grew into the most presti-gious organization in the world, largely because of the quality of people who joined the organization. The biggest names in the history of magic have been members of the S.A.M. Many of them went on to become national officers.</p><p>In the 111 years that have followed, The Society of American Magicians has done weird things. Many times the weird ideas were met with opposition. Some members would employ what I consider to be the worlds seven deadliest words to voice their dis-approval. What are those words? Weve never done it that way before. I can almost hear past voices saying things like: Why should we have S.A.M. Assemblies in other cities? Let them start their own organization. Weve never done it that way before. Why should we have a magazine; why should we have a con-vention; why should we allow international members? After all, we are The Society of American Magicians. Weve never done it that way before. They have said, Why do we need a Magic Endowment Fund; why do we need a media library; why do we need to establish Life Members; why do we need to offer scholar-ships; why do we need to offer assistance for those who have been through some sort of natural disaster? Isnt that what the church or the Red Cross is for? Weve never done it that way before.</p><p>In recent years people have used those seven deadly words when SAMTalk was proposed. For the first time members of The Society of American Magicians were able to communicate with a </p><p>large portion of other members in real time. Many people didnt get it. They didnt understand why we needed to be online. Those seven deadly words were used again when the idea of taking M-U-M online was first presented. We heard it again when we launched the new website, when the Facebook pages were launched, and when the M-U-M online experience was improved. Why have we done all of these things? Not because it was weird; we did those things because they were the right things to do.</p><p>When I hear those seven deadly words I am sure that I am heading in the right direction. Its clear that embracing whats weird often means that we also are embracing change. Change is frightening. As we embrace what some consider to be weird, we must have the ability to know the difference between a trend and a fad. We should never change just for the sake of changing. We should consider our changes carefully. Nevertheless, change is good.</p><p>In March the National Council will meet in Tucson, Arizona. The meeting will be held March 8 at 10:00 a.m. It will take place at the Radisson Suites Tucson, 6555 East Speedway Blvd., Tucson, Arizona 85710. The room rate is $109, and the rate is good three days before or after. The night before (March 7), we will be at-tending Sarlot and Eyeds Carnival of Illusion show; we are plan-ning other events with Assembly 136 after the National Council meeting. The council meeting is where the direction of our path is forged. It is where needed change is identified and voted on. Its where we get weird. If you are a Society of American Magicians member in good standing, you are invited to participate.</p><p>Not only is change good in our society, it is also good for us as individuals. We should all embrace a little weirdness in our magic careers, routines, and practice. Tony Robbins is credited with saying, If you always do what youve always done, youll always have what youve already got. In other words, are you happy with where youre at right now? Is there room for growth and improve-ment? Ill throw a few thoughts at you to get you started: Is your magic strong and getting good feedback? Have your skills improved? Should you consider taking </p><p>lessons? Have you thought about adding related performance skills to </p><p>your act like juggling, dance, or acting? Have you tried creating new tricks? Are you reading books on magic? Studying good videos? Have you taken any classes or attended any wor..</p></li></ul>

Public Auction Sale #007
Catalog of
The Magic Collection
of
herb Zarrow and featuring rarities from the collections of
Paul Fox
and
Dai Vernon
Saturday, October 23, 2010 at 10:00 AM Exhibition October 18 - 22
Thank you for downloading the digital edition of this catalog. Hard copies can be purhased at our website, www.potterauctions.com.
To view
Potter & Potter Auctions, Inc. Ravenswood detailed, color images of3729 eachN.lot and to placeAve. bids online for items -Suite 116please visit our partner website, www.liveauctioneers.com. Chicago, IL 60613
in this catalog,
A Mild-Mannered CPA for a Great New Jersey Accounting Firm
Herb Zarrow was the most deceptively powerful man since Clark Kent. The cardigans. The eyeglasses. The gentle shrugs and soft-spoken ways. But make no mistake – and if you made that mistake with him, you were already many steps behind – at his core was a man of steel. His son, Harry, tells a great story to this effect. For many years, Herb ran a top-flight accounting firm that he founded in New Jersey called Zarrow, Zarrow and Klein (hey, an amateur magician does not support a family, maintain a comfortable household, and finance trips to far-off countries through card tricks alone, no matter how baffling and spectacular they are). As the name declared, it was a family business and it developed a zippy reputation, thriving in a way perhaps belied by its innocent suburban offices, which adjoined Herb’s home in Fair Lawn. Naturally, given Herb’s true calling, the firm developed a side specialty handling magicians’ tax affairs (Lou Tannen was an early client) and yet, despite that, it still managed to maintain its success. At one point, a good 25 or 30 years back now, one of Herb’s client companies was being bought, gobbled up in a merger by a much larger company, which in turn had brought in the accounting giant Peat Marwick Mitchell to do the due diligence. Herb and his gang were going to sit down with some heavy hitters from PMM, as it was then known, to pore over all the financial nooks and crannies before the deal could become final. Now, Herb’s firm wasn’t exactly tiny, but PMM was beyond huge. This was an absolute leviathan, the forerunner to today’s KPMG, one of the so-called Big Four accounting firms, by far the largest in the world, that handle billions upon billions. Merger meetings can be touchy and tense, with some huffing and puffing, and as the suits from the mammoth firm approached Herb, the head guy held out his hand and presented himself importantly. “Joe Schmo,” he announced, the name Harry gives him today. “PMM.” Herb took the guy’s hand in his, one of those legendary Zarrow hands. “Herb Zarrow,” he answered matterof-factly. “ZZK.” Advantage, Herb. Before they even got started.
2 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
And, remember, that was just the day job. In his vocation, the art of magic, once Herb got started, he never stopped working out the advantages – new methods, tricks, versions, improvements, subtleties. He didn’t stop even after he created what many magicians – and quite a few cardsharps – considered the ultimate advantage, the justly mythic Zarrow Shuffle. That made him an historic figure and an unseen friend and mentor to cheaters. “I’m doing the Z all over the Mediterranean,” a boat-riding sharp once actually wrote to him, a letter Herb took some delight in quoting. Herb was one of the most powerful men in magic. But what was the root of this power? Surely, it was partially the aura that came from having created the Zarrow Shuffle. And yet, while that quietly thundering sleight assured his place on Olympus, his own hash mark on the Great Developments in Magic timeline, Herb was much more than his most famous move. He was a man who lived an extraordinary run in magic for decade after decade (he was born in 1925 and died in 2008). He was an active player, a heavy hitter in his own right, during one of the most glorious periods in the history of the art. Herb’s time as one of the most innovative of magicians spanned an especially fruitful period – truly an epoch as we look back on it now – that started in the mid-Forties, when he first came under the sway, at a lecture at the Hotel McAlpin in Manhattan, of his greatest mentor, Dai Vernon (“Uncle Dai” to his kids, with the “day” pronunciation that the name was given on the East Coast). In magic, that night is roughly akin to the young Beethoven making his way to Vienna to study with Haydn. Herb’s tenure deepened and matured through what can loosely be called the Stars of Magic era, the New York-dominated period of the Fifties and Sixties, when many of the greatest developments in close-up sleight-of-hand magic were created and refined in the Saturday melting pot of a Times Square cafeteria and in the seemingly endless late-night-early-morning sessions at the apartments and houses of the leading practitioners of the day. Herb continued straight on into the first decade of the 21st century, when he released a DVD on his famed shuffle, something he never could
have envisioned back in 1946 at that Vernon lecture. Herb’s name is – and has been for many, many years now – right up there in the pantheon. But for him, all those great names up there with him were not just Hall of Famers. They were his friends, his contemporaries, his mentors, colleagues, protégés, and nemeses (yes, as loving and mild-seeming as he was, he certainly had those, too, one renowned one in particular). That was another source of Herb’s quiet power. Vernon, Miller, Slydini, Scarne, Carlyle, Balducci, Garcia, Krenzel, Schwarzman, Lorayne, Thompson, Diaconis, and on and on. Knowing them, sessioning with them, teaching them and being taught, riffing off their tricks and his – it was all routine for the cardigan-wearing accountant from ZZK in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. These giants were the other guests at the great, rolling magical party that Herb and Phyllis – and there simply is no Herb Zarrow story without a loud mention of the incomparable Phyllis Roemer Zarrow – created of their long, impressive lives. Rubbing those shoulders was, for them, part of what life was all about. If you sat down to a Sabbath dinner at Phyllis and Herb’s, he might pull you aside as you gathered at the table, pause a moment and point out a corner of the dining room. “This is where Dai and Tony used to always stand, trying to get the Pendulum Knot,” he’d say softly, referring, of course, to Vernon and Slydini and one of his own favorite tricks. Then he’d sit down to bless the wine. Well, now we don’t have Herb anymore. And we don’t have the equally legendary Phyllis, a cruel blow for those who found some solace with her after Herb died. But this is how it goes. Life, like a poker game into which one of the imperceptible versions of Herb’s shuffle has been introduced, is definitely unfair. That’s the way it is. But there is this collection, courtesy of the Zarrow family.
Collection is the quick, utilitarian word being used, but it does call for some annotation. Like most magicians, Herb didn’t consider himself a collector per se. Oh, serious magicians are always declaring that they’re not really collectors. But they’re not fooling anyone. How could they not be collectors? That is to say, those who, like Herb, spend years at their art, always reading, studying, meeting, sessioning, thinking … well, the magical stuff just accumulates. It collects. In Herb’s case, as you’ll see here, it was mostly books, many signed by his co-pantheonists mentioned above, as well as by many others. He lived during the Great Magic Book Explosion and that’s what he knew about learning magic, that was the bedrock – that and sessioning with his fellow greats. So these volumes comprised his working library, the at-the-elbow resources of an innovative, supremely original artist. But there are some outliers here, too, some surprises, like a rare dollhouse illusion and that eerie, even unearthly Chinese mask created long ago by Uncle Dai’s wife, Jeanne. To hunt down and acquire things, you have to believe in talismans. And most magicians, I think, are passionate believers. You’ll definitely find some powerful talismans here. You won’t find Herb, alas. But maybe, if you root around and get lucky, like he often did, you’ll find a fair consolation prize, a true connection to his power – to his art, which was great, and his life, which was even greater. -Karl Johnson New York City August 2010
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 3
2
1
4
7
10 12
4 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
Apparatus 1. Ball Vase. Japan, Mikame Craft, ca. 1985. Handsome turned hardwood vase from which a ball appears and disappears, or which can be used to transform the ball into a silk handkerchief. Includes a separate matching silk to ball gimmick. Vase stands 6 ½” high. With original box. Fine condition. 75/150 2. Bean Shooter Holdout. Bill Gusias, ca. 1990. Brass and plexiglass device used to secretly steal cards from and deliver cards to the magician’s hand. Accompanied by a note from Gusias to Zarrow in Gusias’ hand. Very good condition. 50/100 3. [Card Accessories] Group of six card magic accessories. Including four card clips (one covered in faux snakeskin and made and hallmarked by Bill Gusias, one a commemorative Dai Vernon Card Clip by Joe Porper, one a plain stainless steel clip, and the other covered in black fabric), one brass card punch (possibly made by Gusias), and one leather card wallet with an outer loading feature. Good condition. 100/200 4. Chinese Sticks. Massachusetts, General Grant, ca. 2000. Three finely made brass sticks threaded with cords and tassels for the classic comedy effect. Each stick measures approximately 16” long. Complete in a custom carrying pouch, and accompanied by a certificate signed by the maker stating that this is #6 from a limited production run of 12 units. Very good condition. 200/250 5. [Close-Up Magic] Collection of close-up tricks and gimmicks. Contained in seven cigar-box sized boxes and including gimmicked cards, specially prepared chrome metal tubes, Rose to Silk gimmicks (two different), loading devices for a Card to Wallet effect, Jesse Thornton’s Di-It trick (Abbott’s), gimmicked salt shakers, handsome wooden rattle box, jumping matchboxes and gimmicked cigarette packs (of German manufacture), vanishing shot glasses, and much, much more. Possibly the property of Art Laughlin, a California-based magician and watchmaker. Objects date from the 1920s – 60s. Condition generally good. 150/300
many more items. Over one thousand dollars original cost. Condition generally good. Should be seen. 300/400 7. Color Changing Candle. A&B Magic (Alexander the Great), 1971. A red candle resting in a brass candlestick is lit by the magician. On his command and without cover, it instantly and visibly changes into a white candle. Operates in a fashion similar to the Okito Color Changing Candle. Candle in holder stand 10 ½” tall. Light wear to all components, but overall good, working condition. 200/250 8. [Cups and Balls] “Found” Cups and Balls set. Quebec, S. Fisher & Sons, ca. 1930. Handsome set of three nesting chrome plated brass cups in a leather case. Sold as nesting cups for travelers, but useable for performances of the Cups and Balls. 4 ¼” high and 2 ½” wide at their openings. Good condition. 50/100 9. [Cups and Balls] Paul Fox Cups. Phoenix, Danny Dew, ca. 1960. Set of three chrome plated beaded cups, each standing 2 7/8” high, with an opening 2 ¾” in diameter. The lower lip of the cups is much thinner than most other examples. Very good condition. 250/350 10. [Cups and Balls] Indian-Style Cups and Balls. American, ca. 1950. Set of three spun metal cups with small turned handles, standing 2 3/8” high, with an opening 2 1/8” in diameter. Possibly unfinished or prototypes. Good condition. 250/350 11. [Cups and Balls] Mikame Craft Cups and Balls. Japan, Mikame Craft, ca. 1980. Set of three wooden turned cups with two matching sets of four red crocheted balls. Cups stand 3 3/8” high with an opening 2 5/8” in diameter. With original box. Very good condition. 50/150 12. [Cups and Balls] P&L Cups. New Haven, Petrie and Lewis, ca. 1950. Set of three chrome plated cups, each standing 3 3/8” high, with an opening 2 ¾” in diameter. Very good condition. 150/250
6. [Close-Up Magic] Gigantic accumulation of close-up magic tricks and props. Including over 100 different pocket tricks and gimmicks with cards, coins, and other small objects. Among the items included are Morla’s Car, Diminishing Cards, a small metal drumhead tube, Haunted Matchboxes, paddle tricks, items manufactured by Tenyo and Adams, coin droppers, final load balls for Chop Cups, gimmicked decks of cards, and many,
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 5
16. Card Duck. Tampa, Warren Hamilton, ca. 1960. Wooden duck that picks chosen cards from a deck placed in a feed box in front of it on a small platform by grabbing them with its bill. No hallmark. Good condition. 100/200 17. Collection of Don Rose’s magic apparatus. Group of stage and parlor tricks owned and used by this New Jersey-based magician. Including a Crystal Silk Cylinder (Grant), Eternal Lite (Himber, in original box), Forgetful Freddy (Townhouse), Hippity-Hop Space Men (likely Tannen), Liquid Appear (Abbott), Monkey Bar (Ken Allen), Herman Hanson Rice Bowls (Holden), Jumbo Sucker Sliding Card Frame (Ireland), Temple Screen (early Grant), and various wands (many gimmicked), spring flowers, vanishing and appearing canes, cups (including several gimmicked items) and miscellaneous tricks. 1940s – 60s. High original cost. Used but good condition. 200/300
13 13. Demon Head Automaton. Watertown, Magic Art Studio, 2000. Four cards are selected. The demon’s eyes move from side to side, and its mouth opens and closes. The deck is placed in the Demon’s mouth. Two selected cards then appear from its mouth and two from the top of its head. Crafted by a ventriloquist figure maker and standing 27” high. Number four from an edition of 12. Very good condition. 800/1,200 14. Don Rose Doll House Illusion. New Jersey, Don Rose, ca. 1945. The magician shows a small house to be empty. From its interior a girl is later produced. One of the first modern illusions to “pack flat and play big,” and offer a novel and clever way of concealing the magician’s assistant than other contemporary stage illusions. Worn from professional use, but good working condition. 300/400 15. Dragon Tables. Colon, Abbott’s Magic, ca. 1970. Set of three wooden tables with three folding legs lacquered in gold, black and red in a pattern resembling that of a dragon. Wooden tops measure 16 x 16” and tables stand 32” high. Tables break apart and legs fold for packing. Chips and wear to finish, but good condition. Uncommon. 150/250
6 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
18 18. Gambling Demonstration Lecture Case. North Hollywood, Merv Taylor, ca. 1955. Wooden suitcase which converts into an easel with clips, holders and servants, which facilitates the presentation of exposes of gambling sleights, deck switches, card moves, and the like. Lacking the holdout, cards and shiner. Original manuscript and one-sheet advertisement included. Good condition. 350/450 Originally retailing for $85, this seldom-encountered M-T product was supplied with four legs onto which the case could be set, creating a table. This example is not outfitted for screw-in legs, as it was apparently designed to be used on a tabletop; it may be an “economy” model that retailed for less, and thus, did not include the holdout or other accessories.
19. Incredi-Book. New York, Magico & Tannens Magic Manuscript, 1983. Two hardbound books of astrological forecasts. The magician can divine the words or forecasts of a spectator in the fairest possible manner. Includes two hardbound “force” books and a booklet of instructions written by the trick’s inventor, Sam Schwartz, and Karl Fulves. Very good condition. 75/150 20. [Playing Cards] Collection of 29 decks of playing cards. Including commemorative cards, trick decks and ordinary packs. Among those included are a pack of unopened “Cardini” Peau-Doux cards, souvenir decks for Fechter’s Finger Flicking Frolic (several different), Tannen’s Magic, Eric DeCamps, Tom Mullica’s Tom-Foolery, Le Grand David, and others; including miscellaneous tricks decks, among them a “Juice” deck, and more. Condition varies. 100/200 21. Prop Case of magician Stanly Levine. A wooden box measuring 13” square packed with the apparatus and accessories for the production of a small magic show. Among the items in the case are Bill Nord’s Diablo Slate, miniature aluminum cups for Cups and Balls, Herpick’s Cash Vanish trick (with original instructions and packaging), wooden Sure Shot Dice Box, Brass Six Shot Lota (Abbott), ball holders, pull vanishers, small Change Bag (maker unknown), egg bag, Demon Wonder Box with extra load, Al Baker’s Salt Trick, a variety of instructions and some scattered ephemera, as well as various gimmicked and ordinary silk handkerchiefs. Levine’s name is stenciled on the lid of the case. Contents fit into three compartmentalized trays which nest in the case. Case worn and hasp for lock broken; contents in used but good condition. 250/350
23
23. Nest of Boxes. McAllen, Viking-Haenchen, ca. 1999. Three nested hardwood boxes from which the magician can reproduce borrowed, vanished objects, despite the fact that the boxes have been nested and locked together and in full view throughout the performance. No assistant or special stage furniture required to operate the apparatus. Complete with Devil’s Hank, instructions and boxes. Very good condition. 250/350 24. Pagoda Production. Reidel, ca. 1960. The magician covers a drumhead with paper and hangs it in an open framework. When he punches through the paper, he produces from it a large quantity of silk handkerchiefs. Framework measures 24 x 28” and breaks apart for packing. Light chips and wear to finish and hinge for gimmick weak, but overall good condition. 100/200
25 22 22. Marlin Coin Cups. Washington, D.C., Collectors Workshop, ca. 1990. Borrowed quarters transpose between two turned walnut cups. With original instructions, signed certificate, and carrying bag (now worn from age). Very good condition. 100/200
25. Dai Vernon’s Sixth Finger Feke. American, ca. 1940. Celluloid false finger painted with a flesh tone, used for the production and vanish of silk handkerchiefs and other objects. Used by and from the collection of Dai Vernon. Lightly worn from use, but good condition. Accompanied by a letter of provenance signed by Vernon’s son, Derek Verner. 200/250
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 7
26. Skittle trick. English, ca. 1890. Finely turned boxwood skittle and exceptionally thin matching shell which allows the magician to mysteriously transport the solid wooden skittle from one location to another. 4” high and ¾” wide at its base. Good condition. 50/100
30. Table & Brief Case. Likely Merv Taylor, ca. 1960. Compact leather brief case which converts into a working surface for the magician, but also holds props during transport. Includes flange, casters, and leg to convert case into a freestanding table. Wear from use, but in good working condition. 100/200 31. Winston Freer Tile Puzzle. Buffalo, Karl Norman, ca. 1980. A grid of tiles is exhibited and shown to contain nine rows of seven tiles each. The magician removes one tile, but when the grid is reassembled, 63 tiles remain. This is repeated twice more, but each time, despite removing one tile, 63 still remain. Based on the original puzzle designed and built by Winston Freer, aka “Doc” Maxam. With original instructions. Crudely made (as issued). Good condition. 75/150
27 27. Slat Card Frame. Amsterdam, Eddy Taytelbaum, ca. 1970. The magician places a playing card into a small holder with slats cut in it, through which the card can be seen. The card then vanishes – visually – from the frame. Wooden frame decorated in blue and gold. Mechanical card included. Good condition. 200/300
32. WOW Book Test. New Jersey, Meir Yedid Magic, 1987. Set of two specially-manufactured books that allow the mentalist to divine a word in either tome being thought of by a spectator from the audience. Includes two books and original instructions. As new. 150/250
28. Square Circle. Joseph Feinchel, ca. 1960. The magician shows a circular tube empty, and a square, open-fronted box empty as well. The two items are nested and from inside both of them is produced a large quantity of silk handkerchiefs, and finally a massive circular birdcage, complete with singing birds. Largest box measures 9 ½ x 9 ½”. Used but good condition. 50/150 29. [Stage Magic] Lifetime accumulation of stage and parlor tricks. Including a wide range of effects, among them a floating Zombie Ball, Temple Screen, various rope and jumbo card tricks, trick glasses, Chinese Sticks, Rice Bowls, chain escape, Soft Soap boxes, 5” Linking Rings, trick glasses, Milk Pitcher, Marconick’s Silken Bombshell, silk handkerchiefs (a quantity), Fickle Fire, Vanishing Coke Bottles, a handsome Change Bag, Match to Flower, kid show tricks, candle tricks, Abbott’s HipityHop Rabbits (with Abbott decal, ca. 1948), Firebowl (Rings & Things, in original mailing carton), and much, much more, in two large cartons, many items with original instructions. Some duplication. 1950s – 80s. Over 100 different tricks at considerable original collector cost. Used but generally good condition. Should be seen. 350/550
8 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
33 33. [Zarrow] Close-up magic props used by Herb Zarrow. Included are three oversized walnut shells for the Three Shell Game given to Zarrow by Audley Walsh, Zarrow’s Linking Pins (using no key), five Franklin half dollars used by Zarrow for various coin routines, two sets of four small rubber balls used in various routines, and an ungimmicked pack of Tally Ho cards. All in used but good condition. 100/200
Books and Periodicals 34. [31 Faces North] Three privately-circulated books from the annual 31 Faces North conferences. Including Disorderly Conduct (Eric Mead, 2005), My First Trick (2006), and On Writing Magic (Stephen Minch, 2007; signed and inscribed by Minch and Patrick Watson). Each from limited editions of 50 or fewer. All in wraps; bindings and sizes vary. Good condition. 40/80 These publications have never been offered for sale. Each was presented to attendees of the conference gratis for his participation in the event. 35. Abrams, Max. Annemann The Life and Times of a Legend. Tahoma, 1992. Publisher’s black leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase. 4to. Very good condition. Signed and inscribed by Abrams, “One of three special copies – to Tony Spina – who brings magic to life and vice versa. With best wishes Max Abrams.” 150/250 Further information about the “three special copies” referred to in Abrams’ inscription is unavailable.
37 37. Albo, Robert. The Ultimate Okito and The Ultimate Okito Addendum. Piedmont, 2007-08. Both in publisher’s green cloth stamped in gold and illustrated with numerous color plates and tipped-in posters and graphics. Both volumes from limited editions of 400 copies, the former accompanied by a folio of DVDs and housed in a matching slipcase, as issued. 4to. Good condition. 300/400 38. Ammar, Michael. The Magic of Michael Ammar. Tahoma, 1991. Publisher’s black leather stamped in gold with pictorial jacket and matching slipcase. Being number 38 from the publisher’s limited, deluxe, signed and numbered edition. Illustrated. 4to. Very good condition. Signed by Michael Ammar. 75/150
36 36. Albo, Robert. Classic Magic Series, Vols. 1 – 11. San Francisco, 1973 – 2005. Illustrated with numerous drawings and color plates, each volume from a limited, numbered edition. 4to. Volumes 1-8 housed in publisher’s red cloth case; vols. 9-11 in matching red cloth container, as issued. Vol. 8 consists of eight “supplements.” Cloth case damaged, but books in good condition overall. Most volumes signed by Albo. 3,500/4,500 39 39. Apocalypse. Harry Lorayne. V1 N1 (Jan. 1978) – V20 N12 (Dec. 1997). Complete file. Bound in four matching volumes with pictorial boards from the L&L Publishing Co. reprint edition. All in good condition. Alfredson/Daily 1160. 150/250
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 9
40. Aronson, Simon. Six publications about card magic by Simon Aronson. Including The Aronson Approach (1990), Bound to Please (1994; signed and inscribed to Herb Zarrow), The Open Index (1995), Sessions (1982), Simply Simon (1995), and Try the Impossible (2001). All but The Open Index in cloth with jackets and illustrated. 4to. High original cost. Good condition. 75/150 41. [Ascanio] Collection of nine Ascanio and “Spanish School” magic books. Including 52 Lovers Vol. 1 (ca. 1988), About the Handling of Double Cards (1981), Ascanio’s Favorites (1989), The Magic Of Ascanio: Studies of Card Magic (2006, signed and inscribed), The Magic of Ascanio: The Structural Conception of Magic (2005, signed and inscribed), Navajas y Daltonismo (1958), The Psychology of Palming (1982), and Slow Motion Magic Vols. 1 and 2 (ca. 1988). Sizes and bindings vary. High original cost. Good condition. 200/300
43. [Autographs] Group of 20 autographed magic books and lecture notes. Inscriptions to Herb Zarrow, Connie Bush, and others. Titles include 52 Amazing Card Tricks (1949; signed and inscribed by Rufus Steele to Audley Walsh), The Encyclopedia of Sleeving (n.d., signed and inscribed by Chanin), Improved Ropseational (1976), La Magia de Silvan (1977), Play It Again, Sam (1977), Ropesational (n.d.), Thanks to Peyps (1973, signed and inscribed by Bob Read), Unconventional Magic (n.d., signed and inscribed by Lewis Ganson), Scott York Lecture (1975), and others. Bindings vary; all in wraps and 8vo. Generally good condition. Should be seen. 100/200 44. [Autographs] Group of 34 large-format autographed magic booklets and lecture notes. Additional Deceptions from Derek Dingle (n.d.), Andrus Card Control Vols. 1 and 2 (1976), The Bottom Deal (1996, signed and numbered by Tony Giorgio), Characters (1988), Creative Magic (1973), Knock ‘em Dead (1999), Observations & Effects (n.d.), Off The Wall Lecture Notes (1983), On Your Feet (2004), A Platform of Miracles (2002), Harvey Rosenthal’s Close-Up Sampler Parts 1 and 2 (1976), Howard Schwarzman Lecture Notes (n.d.), Simplicity Magic (n.d.), Stabbed in the Baxt (1987), Think… Adapt…Enlarge (1974), and others. Inscriptions to Herb Zarrow, Connie Bush, and others. Including Signatures include those of Willmarth, Dingle, Irv Weiner, Robert Baxt, Charles Reynolds, Sid Lorraine, Jerry Andrus, Harvey Rosenthal, David Ben, Christian Engblom, Bob Read, Paul Swinford, Dan Tong, Bob Fitch and others. Bindings vary; all in wraps and 4to. Generally good condition. Should be seen. 150/250
42 42. [Autographs] Group of 16 autographed magic books and lecture notes. Inscriptions to Herb Zarrow, Connie Bush, and others. Titles include Alex is At It Again (1997), The Bailey Formula (1979), Barnett on Sleights (n.d.; number 34 from a limited numbered edition of 100), Browsing Around in Magic (1972), Card Animations (1987), The Elusive Canary (1936), Cy Endfield’s Entertaining Card Magic, parts 1 – 3 (part one signed Herb Zarrow), Miracles in Mentalism and Psychic Experimentation (1945; signed and inscribed by Robert Nelson), SH-H-H--! It’s a Secret (signed and inscribed by Theo Annemann to Conrad “Connie” Bush), and others. Bindings vary; all in wraps and 8vo. Good condition. 50/150
45
and inscribed to
10 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
45. Baker, Al. Al Baker’s Pet Secrets. [New York], 1951. Black cloth stamped in gold. Illustrated. Number 252 from a limited, deluxe, signed and numbered first edition. 8vo. Good condition. 50/100
49
46 46. Baker, Al. Collection of Five Al Baker magic books. Including Al Baker’s Book (1933), Magical Ways and Means (1941), Pet Secrets (1951), and The Secret Ways of Al Baker (2003). All five in good condition. Magical Ways and Means signed and inscribed by
Baker. 100/200
47. The Bat. Lloyd Jones. N1 (Feb. 1943) – N86 (Feb. 1951). Complete file. Bound in two matching green cloth volumes, spines stamped in gold. Good condition. Alfredson/Daily 1275. 50/150
49. [Bizarre Magic] Collection of 13 books about Bizarre Magic. Including 13!!! (n.d.), And Then There were 3 (1974), Bizarre (1988), Bizarre Magic…an Interview with Anthony Raven (1977), Daemons, Darklings and Doppelgangers (1968), Handbook of Horror (n.d.), Imagination in Magic (1971; black pebbled cloth stamped in gold), Macabre and Mental Mysteries (1981), Midnight Fantasy (1987), The Necromantic Grimoire of Augustus Rupp (1974; one of a limited edition of 500 numbered copies), The Shiels Effect (1976), Something Strange (n.d.), and Witches’ Brew (n.d.). Sizes and bindings vary. Condition generally very good. 200/300 With: An incomplete file of Invocation (lacking only V1 N1 for completion).
48 50 48. [Biographies] Collection of 25 biographies of magicians. Including A Gift from the Gods (1981), A Lifetime in Magic (1960), Carl Rosini His Life and His Magic (1966; signed and inscribed by Rosini), The Complete Jarrett (2001), Confidences d’un Prestidigitateur (1995), The Genuis of Robert Harbin (1997), The Great Raymond (1996; signed and inscribed by the author, editor and publisher), The Hanlon Brothers (1998; signed by the author), House of Cards: The Life & Magic of Paul Rosini (1999), The Riddle of Chung Ling Soo (1976), The Secrets of Karl Germain (1962; signed by the author), Servais LeRoy Monarch of Mystery (1999), Willard the Wizard (1978), and others. Most from limited editions. Sizes and bindings vary. High original cost. Condition generally good. 400/600
50. Bertram, Ross. Magic and Methods of Ross Bertram and Bertram of Sleight of Hand. Oakland, 1978 and 1983. Both in publisher’s cloth with jackets, illustrated with photographs and 4to. Jackets worn and toned, otherwise good condition. Both volumes signed and inscribed by Bertram to Conrad “Connie” Bush. 100/200 51. Braue, Frederick. The Fred Braue Notebooks. Oakland, 1985 - 1997. Publisher’s wraps, illustrated with line drawings. Eight wire-bound volumes. 4to. Good condition. 100/200
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 11
55. Buckley, Arthur. The Buckley Trilogy. Comprised of Card Control (1946), Gems of Mental Magic (with John Brown Cook, 1947), and Principles and Deceptions (1948). All three bound in black cloth, illustrated and 4to. Good condition. 75/150 Buckley, though an accomplished entertainer, was also a successful and well respected inventor and engineer. After settling in Chicago permanently (having emigrated from Australia), he was employed by John Brown Cook, an amateur magician, collector of rare magic books, and successful businessman. Buckley’s books are considered modern classics of magic literature.
52 52. Britland, David. The Mind and Magic of David Berglas. Burbank, 2002. Publisher’s maroon cloth, stamped in gold. Illustrated. 4to. Very good condition. 400/500
56
56. Buffum, Richard. The Brema Brasses. Balboa Island, 1981. Publisher’s cloth, illustrated with photographs. 8vo. Light foxing to page edges and jacket scuffed; overall good condition. 150/250
53 53. Brown, Derren. Pure Effect. Humble, 2000. Third edition. Publisher’s brown cloth with pictorial jacket. Illustrated with photographs. 8vo. Good condition. 100/200
57 57. Cameron, Judson J. Cheating at Bridge. Philadelphia, 1933. Publisher’s pebbled red cloth stamped in gold. 8vo. Backstrip lightly faded, otherwise good condition. 75/150
54 54. Brown, Ed. The Feints and Temps of Harry Riser. [Silver Spring], 1996. Green leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase, being number 20 in the publisher’s limited, deluxe edition of 50. Illustrated. 4to. Very good condition. Signed by Harry Riser. 75/150
12 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
59
58. [Card Magic] Collection of 20 hardbound books about card magic. Including 21st Century Card Magic by James Swain (1999), Card File by Jerry Mentzer (1993), Card Finesse (1982), Don’t BlinkThe Magic of James Swain (1992), The Encyclopedia of Playing Card Flourishes by Cetowski(2002), The Encyclopedia of Self-Working Card Tricks by Gravatt (ca. 1934), The Second Encyclopedia of Card Tricks by Gravatt(1936), The Esoterist by Allan Ackerman(1971), Las Vegas Kardma (1994), Miracles with Cards by James Swain(1996), Testament of R.W. Hull by Trevor Hall (ca. 1945), Versatile Card Magic by Frank Simon(1983), and others. 1930s – 2000s. Sizes vary; some titles signed and inscribed. High original cost. Condition generally good. 200/300 59. [Card Magic] Collection of 30 hardbound books about card magic. Including Arch Triumphs by Jon Racherbaumer (1978), Card Cavalcade Vols. 1 – 4 and Finale by Jerry Mentzer(1972 – 1979), Card Concepts by Arthur MacTier (2000), Card Fictions by Pit Hartling (2003), The Card Magic of Edward G. Brown (1973), Card Zones (2001), The Complete Walton Vols. 1 and 2 (1981, 1986), Diverting Card Magic (1980), Effective Card Magic by Bill Simon (1952), Fingertip Fantasies by Bob Ostin (1976), Hilliard’s Card Magic by J.N. Hilliard (1945), The Pass by Garry Ouellet (1986), Semi-Automatic Card Tricks Vols. 3, 5, 6 and 7 compiled by Steve Beam (2000 – 2006), Solomon’s Mind by Eugene Burger (1997), and others. All in publisher’s cloth, some with jackets; sizes vary. High original cost. Condition generally good. 300/600
60. [Card Magic] Collection of over 60 softbound booklets on card tricks and magic. Including many privately circulated or from limited editions. Some signed and inscribed. Titles include Color Isolation by Conrad “Connie” Bush (1988), The Devil’s Playthings by Roy Walton (1969), The Elegant Card Magic of Father Cyprian by Frank Garcia (1980), The Esoterist by Allan Ackerman (1971), Face Up Face Down Mysteries by Bob Hummer (n.d.), The Green Angle Separation by Lennart Green (n.d.), HalfA-Dozen Hummers by Bob Hummer (n.d.), Charlie Miller on the Card Index (n.d.), On the Up and Up by Richard Kaufman (1978), Secrets of a Puerto Rican Gambler by Stephen Minch (1980, signed and inscribed), Six Trix for 1944 by Bob Hummer (1944), Sleightly Sensational by Bill Simon (1954), and many others. Bindings and sizes vary, but most 8vo. High original cost. Good condition. 50/100 61. [Card Magic] Collection of over 85 softbound books about card magic. Including Abbott’s Anthology of Card Magic Vols. 1 – 3, edited by Gordon Miller (1968), Fred Braue on False Deals (1978; number 30 of 300 copies), Close-Up Classics by Michael Vincent (1997), Contemporary Card Magic by Duffie and Sadowitz (1984), Hand Mucking by George Joseph (1982), The Magic of Fred Robinson or Waiting for the 11.27 by Fred Robinson (1983; signed and inscribed by Robinson to Zarrow), Randy Wakeman’s Special Effects by John Mendoza (1987), Six More Hummers by Bob Hummer (1941), Steranko on Cards by Jim Steranko (1960), The Thompson Pass by Frank Thompson (1981), a quantity of J.K. Hartman manuscripts, and many more. All 4to; bindings vary. High original cost. Generally good condition. Should be seen. 250/350
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 13
62. [Card Magic] Collection of over 150 softbound booklets on card tricks and magic. Including many privately circulated or from limited editions. Many signed and inscribed. Titles include 1-2 Separation by Lennart Green (n.d.), The Breather The Ultimate Crimp by Bob King (1993), Card Secrets of Bruce Cervon (1976), Cardboard Charades by Roy Walton (ca. 1971), Faro Fantasy by Paul Swinford (1986), For Card Men Only by Al Leech (1949), Full Deck of Impromptu Tricks (ca. 1955), Here’s My Card by Allan Ackerman (1978), The Impostress Princess (1986), The Phantom of the Card Table (1976), Psych-Out by Bruce Bernstein (1994), Larry Jennings’ Stabbed Coincidence by Jeff Busby (1976), TPC – The Tamariz Perpendicular Control by Juan Tamariz (1994), Trigger by Roy Walton (1976), and many others. Bindings and sizes vary, but most 8vo. High original cost. Good condition. 150/250
65 65. Caveney, Mike. Carter the Great. Pasadena, 1995. Publisher’s cloth with pictorial jacket, illustrated with photographs and color plates. Number 582 from a limited edition of 1000 copies. 4to. Very good condition. Signed and inscribed to Herb Zarrow by Mike Caveney. 200/300 With: The pitchbook Personal Magnetism by Charles J. Carter (“Carter the Great”), ca. 1910. Some light wear and foxing, but overall good condition.
63
63. Carney, John. Group of six John Carney magic publications. Including The Book of Secrets (2002), Carneycopia (1991), Carney Knowledge (1983), Carney Uncovered (1987), Carney Up Close (1987), and Conjuring Con Carney (1987). Bindings vary; all 8vo. Good condition. Carneycopia, The Book of Secrets and Carney Uncovered warmly signed and inscribed by Carney to Herb & Phyllis Zarrow. 150/250 64. [Catalogs] Collection of over 65 vintage and contemporary magic catalogs. Including examples from the following firms: Abbott, Ken Allen, Haines House of Cards, Ireland, Owen Magic Supreme, P&L (both catalogs issued by the company), Supreme, Swann Galleries (Fechner auction), Tannens (a quantity, many hardbound), Thayer, Harry Stanley’s Unique Magic Studio, Vampire, and others. 1930s – 90s. Sizes and bindings vary; some duplication. Condition generally very good. Should be seen. 150/250
14 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
66
66. Caveney, Mike and Bill Miesel. Kellar’s Wonders. Pasadena, 2003. Publisher’s cloth. Illustrated with photographs and color plates. 4to. Good condition. Signed and inscribed by Caveney to Herb Zarrow. 150/250 67. Cervon, Bruce. Bruce Cervon’s Castle Notebooks Vol. 1. Tahoma, 2007. Publisher’s black leather stamped in gold. Number 45 from a numbered limited edition of 500 copies. Illustrated. 4to. Very good condition. 150/250
72. Clapham, Henry. Melody Magic. Washington, D.C., 1932. Publisher’s red cloth stamped in black. Portrait frontispiece, illustrated. Number 206 from an edition of 1000 copies. 4to. Cloth lightly worn at extremities, but overall good condition. 50/150
68 68. Cervon, Bruce and Stephen Minch. Ultra Cervon. Tahoma, 1990. Bright red leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase. Number 50 of the publisher’s limited deluxe edition. Illustrated with photographs. 4to. Very good condition. Signed and numbered by Bruce Cervon. 150/250 69. Charvet, David. Alexander The Man Who Knows. Pasadena, 2004. First edition. Publisher’s cloth with jacket. Illustrated. 8vo. Very good condition. 75/150
73 73. Clarke, Sidney. The Annals of Conjuring. Seattle, 2001. Publisher’s cloth with pictorial jacket. Illustrated, including color plates. 4to. Jacket worn and minor closed tear to ffep and frontispiece, and eight pages blank (as if bound erroneously by the printer), otherwise good condition. 75/150
70 70. Chislett, T.H. Spirits in the House. Birmingham, 1949. Pebbled blue cloth stamped in gold with pictorial jacket. Illustrated with line drawings and plates. Small 8vo. Light wear to jacket, otherwise very good condition. 50/100 Chislett was the British David P. Abbott, in that his home was outfitted with a wide array of spiritualistic tricks and devices, most of which are described in this sought-after book. 71. The Chop Cup Book. North Hollywood, 1979. Black pebbled cloth stamped in silver. Illustrated. 8vo. Very good condition. 50/100
74 74. [Classics] Seven limited edition facsimiles of classic books on conjuring. Including Breslaw’s Last Legacy (1997), Clever and Pleasant Inventions (1998), Crambrook’s Catalog (n.d.), The Discoverie of Witchcraft (1995) number 8 from a leather bound, signed and numbered limited edition), The Expositor (1996), Hocus Pocus Junior (1997), and Sports and Pastimes (1999). All from limited editions in publisher’s cloth. Sizes vary. High original cost. Condition generally very good. 150/250
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 15
75 75. [Classics] Ten classic magic books, including first editions. Included are The Encyclopedia of Cigarette Tricks by Keith Clark (1952, second edition), Magicians’ Tricks and How They Are Done by Hatton and Plate (1919), Modern Coin Magic by J.B. Bobo (1952, first edition), The Modern Conjurer by C. Lang Neil (1937), Modern Magic and More Magic by Professor Hoffmann (matching later American editions), Our Magic by Maskelyne & Devant (1911), The Secrets of Conjuring and Magic by Robert-Houdin (1878), Sleight of Hand by Edwin Sachs (second, expanded edition), and The Tarbell Course in Magic (1927; being the original mail-order course rebound in six matching red cloth volumes stamped in gold). All cloth bound, most with jackets. Sizes vary. Condition varies from fair to good. 300/500 These volumes make up the bedrock of modern conjuring literature; most were included in Annemann’s famous “Five-Foot Shelf of Magic.”
77 77. [Close-Up Magic] Collection of 20 books about close-up magic. Including The Cervon File (1988), Encore 3 (1983), Kane (1982), Karl Norman: 40 Years at the Forks (1995), Magic by Gosh (1987), Magic from the Soul (1993; signed and inscribed by Rene Lavand to Herb Zarrow), The Magic of Francis Carlyle (1975), Simply Harkey (1991), Star Quality: The Magic of David Regal (1987), Stars of Magic (1961), and others. Most in publisher’s cloth and illustrated; sizes vary. High original cost. Generally good condition. 200/300
78
76 76. [Classics] Eleven classic books about magic tricks and magicians. Including 200 Tricks You Can Do by Howard Thurston (1926, first edition with jacket), Blackstone’s Secrets of Magic by Harry Blackstone, Sr. (1929), Card and Conjuring Tricks by Roberts & Crayford (n.d.), Higher Magic by Oscar Teale (1920), Magical Experiments or Science in Play by Arthur Good (1892; nice copy), Magic by Ellis Stanyon (1911), Magic for Everyone by Hereward Carrington (1942), Maskelyne’s Book of Magic by Jasper Maskelyne (ca. 1936), Memoirs of Robert-Houdin (1945), Modern Magician’s Handbook by W.J. Hilliar (1902), and Tricks with Coins by T. Nelson Downs (1902). All in publisher’s cloth and 8vo. Generally good condition. 200/300
16 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
78. [Close-Up Magic] Collection of 20 books about close-up magic. Including The Art of Close-Up Magic (ca. 1965), Close-Up & Personal (1999), Close-Up Illusions (1990; signed and inscribed), The Coins of Ishtar (1971; one of a limited numbered edition), Constant Fooling Vols. 1 and 2 (2002), Inside John Murray (1984; number 12 of 100 hardbound copies, signed and inscribed to Herb Zarrow), The Lost Notebooks of John Northern Hilliard (2001), Sankey Unleashed (2004), Al Schneider on Close-Up (1980), Switch (2006), Theatrical Close-Up (1984; signed and inscribed to Herb Zarrow), Tricks of My Trade (1999), When Creators Collide (1987), and others. Most in publisher’s cloth and illustrated; sizes vary. High original cost. Generally good condition. 200/300
79 81 79. [Close-Up Magic] Collection of over 50 close-up magic publications. Including lecture notes, booklets and manuscripts. Titles include The Book of John (1978), Cashing in With Close Up Restaurant Magic (1974), Close-Up Magic of the Masters (n.d.), Close-Up To The Point (1984), Dynamic Deceptions (ca. 1955), Elastrix (1979), The Magic of Tony Van Rhee (2001), Magic for the New World (1986), A Magician Goes to Dinner (n.d.), A Pasteboard Odyssey (1997), Practical Impossibilities (1976), Sanada Gimmick Routines (1991), The Travelling Ghost (1942), and others. Bindings vary; all 4to. High original cost. Generally good condition. 150/250
81. Conjurers’ Monthly Magazine. Harry Houdini. V1 N1 (Sept. 1906) V2 N12 (Aug. 1908). Complete file. Bound in two matching blue volumes with lettered cloth spines, as issued by Houdini. A portrait of a young handcuffed Houdini has been tipped inside each volume. Wear and chips to extremities of each volume, margins of individual issues trimmed as usually encountered, and volume two disbound; still, a desirable and complete set in good condition. Alfredson/Daily 1745. 400/600 82. Conjurers’ Monthly Magazine. Harry Houdini. V1 N1 (Sept. 1906) V2 N12 (Aug. 1908). Complete file. One of the limited reprint edition of 1991 bound in two matching grey cloth volumes stamped in red and black, with matching slipcase. Light wear to case, otherwise very good condition. Alfredson/ Daily 1745. 200/300
80
80. [Close-Up Magic] Collection of over 110 softbound books about close-up magic. Including After Dinner Tricks by Walter Gibson (1921), The Artful Dodges of Eddie Fields by Racherbaumer (1968, being number 125 from the first, limited edition), The Close-Up Magician edited by Robert Parrish (1958), Five Dollar Trix by Jerry Andrus (1973), J.C. Coin Routines by Jack Chanin (1941), Larry Jennings on Card & Coin Handling (1977), Kort is Now in Session by Milton Kort (1962), The Last Word on Cups and Balls by Eddie Joseph (1942), Match-Ic by Martin Gardner (1935), John Platt Internationally Famous Cups and Balls (n.d.), Paul Rosini’s Magical Gems by Robert Parrish (1950), Side Effects by Michael Weber (1984), Top Secrets by Fleischman and Gunther (1947), and others. All in wraps, and most 8vo. Condition generally good. Should be seen. 100/200
83 83. Cramer, Stuart. Germain the Wizard. Seattle, 2002. Publisher’s cloth, illustrated with photographs and color plates. 4to. Good condition. 50/150
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 17
84
The Csuri Notes 84. Csuri, Frank. The Csuri Notes. Faucett Ross was a tireless correspondent. Through the mail, he traded secrets with a network of the magic world’s best-posted “inside men.” He was also a confidant and amanuensis of Dai Vernon, and as a result, was privy to many of the magical cognoscenti’s best-kept secrets. In the 1950s, Frank Csuri began mining the thousands of pages of correspondence between Ross, Charlie Miller, Paul Fox, Dai Vernon and other well-posted sleight-of-hand magicians, re-typing portions of their letters and creating what have come to be known as the Csuri Notes, notes on the various tricks and secrets these magicians had been corresponding about for years. In the decades since their compilation, these anthologies of “underground” magic secrets have circulated the magic subterra, and become legendary in their own right. With the exception of the notebooks of Dr. Jacob Daley, the Csuri Notes were never professionally published or sold; instead, Csuri produced only six copies of each set of notes and distributed them to friends. Conrad “Connie” Bush was one of those friends. Bush was a well-liked, skilled and well-known amateur magician from Prospect Park, New Jersey. Like Herb Zarrow, Bush was a professional accountant. After his death, his library was purchased by Zarrow, and with it came Bush’s set of the Csuri Notes. Both Bush and Zarrow added their own notations and added considerably to the original notes, and the result is 21 thick
18 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
three-ring binders containing some of Csuri’s original works (on Miller, Vernon, and Fox), supplemented by descriptions of tricks and their explanations culled from many other sources, including books, periodicals and lecture notes. Bush added some of this material, but it was Herb Zarrow who expanded them tremendously. These 21 three-ring binders encompass the published and unpublished works of Dai Vernon, Charlie Miller (including tricks of Malini), Audley Walsh, Paul Fox, Faucett Ross, William Read Woodfield, and various original lecture notes (some signed and inscribed),
instructions for tricks and associated ephemera. Hundreds of these pages are original typescripts as issued by Csuri. A hand-bound (but three-hole punched) bibliography of Vernon’s works is among these items. The added material, much of which was photocopied or mimeographed, includes complete runs of Charlie Miller’s “Magicana” column, “The Vernon Touch,” Max Holden’s Linking Ring columns, the aforementioned lecture notes, instructions, and more. These notebooks contain countless thousands of pages of the most coveted published and unpublished secrets of the 20th century. This is a unique opportunity for the serious student to own the entire set, including the Csuri originals, which with one or two exceptions, have never before been publicly offered. Condition of the pages and binders ranges from fair to very good. Should be seen. 2,000/3,000
88. Dexter, Will (ed.). Magic Circle Magic. London, [1963]. Red leather stamped in gold with pictorial jacket and marbled endpapers, being No. 130 of a “restricted” first, deluxe edition. Illustrated with line drawings. 8vo. Light rubbing at head and foot of spine, jacket tattered and some marginal notes penciled in, otherwise good condition. Signed by Magic Circle President Francis White.
100/200 The limitation of this restricted edition is unknown, but it was printed by H. Clarke & Co., the firm responsible for many of the Dai Vernon books, and was produced in a manner similar to the deluxe edition of The Dai Vernon book of Magic.
85
85. Culliton, Patrick. Houdini Unlocked. N.p., 1997. Two volumes in publisher’s orange pictorial cloth stamped in gold. Number 241 from a limited edition of 250 copies. Lavishly illustrated with photographs. Housed in matching orange clothcovered slipcase, as issued. 4to. Very good condition. 600/800 86. Daley, Jacob. Jacob Daley’s Notebooks. [Teaneck], ca. 1975. Black cloth with spine stamped in gold. 4to. Very good condition. 75/150
89 89. Downs, T. Nelson. The Art of Magic. Chicago, 1921. Second edition. Publisher’s red pictorial cloth. Illustrated. 8vo. Very good condition. Nice copy. 75/150
87
87. Dawes, Edwin. Eleven signed and inscribed magic publications by Edwin Dawes. Including The Barrister in the Circle (1983), Charles Bertram: The Court Conjurer (1997), The Book of Magic (1986; three editions), Stanley Collins: Conjurer, Collector, and Iconoclast (2002), Glimpses of Goldston (1999), The Great Illusionists (1979), The Magical Writings of Edwin A. Dawes (1997), Stodare: The Enigma Variations (1998), and Vonetta Mistress of Mystery (1982). Five of these are from limited editions, some being numbered. Sizes and bindings vary. Condition generally good. Ten of the publications signed and inscribed, nine of these to F.W. Keuthe and one to the Zarrows. 150/300
90 90. Downs, T. Nelson. Modern Coin Manipulation. [London], ca. 1900. First edition. Bright red cloth stamped in gold. Portrait frontispiece, illustrated with line drawings. 8vo. Cloth lightly soiled and spine toned, but overall good condition. 100/200 Reprinted for decades as a cheap pulp publication, clothbound editions of Downs’ are uncommon, the English edition more so.
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 19
91
91. [Dunninger] Group of 10 Joseph Dunninger magic books. Including Dunninger’s Book of Magic (1974), Dunninger’s Complete Encyclopedia of Magic (n.d.), Dunninger’s Monument to Magic (1974), Dunninger’s Popular Magic Vol. 3 (1929), Dunninger’s Secrets (1974), Houdini’s Spirit Exposés (1928), Inside the Medium’s Cabinet (1935), Magic and Mystery: The Incredible Psychic Investigations of Houdini and Dunninger (1967), What’s On Your Mind (1944; signed by Dunninger), What’s On Your Mind (1944; armed services edition). Sizes and bindings vary. Condition varies, but generally good. 100/200
93. [Escorial] Group of 20 Jornadas Cartomagicas De El Escorial. These treatises, by Roberto Giobbi, Javier Benitez, Reinhard Mueller, and others, were issued to coincide with the annual conferences staged in Escorial, Spain by Juan Tamariz. Titles include Vernon’s lectures in Germany, Dai Vernon’s “More Inner Secrets of Card Magic”, Dai Vernon’s Further Inner Secrets, Cards up the Sleeve, Hofzinser y la Magia del Siglo XIX, Marlo on Faked Decks, Los Clasificadores Card Indexes, Ace Assembly, Cartas Gigantas, Gibreath’s Principles, and others. All bound in wraps, 4to and in very good condition. 100/200 The El Escorial conferences are invitation-only events; these notes are not made available for sale publicly, and have never before been offered at auction.
94 94. Evans, Henry Ridgley. Edgar Allan Poe and Baron von Kemplen’s Chess-Playing Automaton. Kenton, 1939. Blue cloth stamped in gold. Illustrated with plates. 8vo. Unobtrusive wear to extremities, good condition. Uncommon. 200/250 95. Evans, Henry Ridgley. The History of Conjuring and Magic. Kenton, 1930. “New and Revised Edition.” Deep blue cloth stamped in gold. Illustrated with plates. 8vo. Good condition. 150/250 92
92. Epilogue. Karl Fulves. N1 (Nov. 1967) – N24 (Jul. 1975). Complete file. Bound in black leather and stamped in gold with matching slipcase. Being number 60 of the publisher’s limited, deluxe signed and numbered reprint edition. Very good condition. Signed by Karl Fulves. Alfredson/Daily 2130. 75/150
20 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
96. Fechner, Christian. The Magic of Robert-Houdin, An Artist’s Life. Boulogne, 2002. Two volumes in publisher’s cloth, illustrated, including color plates, with publisher’s slipcase. Very good condition. 150/250
97. Fitzkee, Dariel. The Fitzkee Trilogy. Including Magic by Misdirection, Showmanship for Magicians and The Trick Brain. Saint Raphael, 1943 – 1945. All three being first editions in publisher’s cloth with jackets and 8vo. Condition generally good. 50/150 With: Two other Fitzkee titles, Rings in Your Fingers (1946) and The Strange Inventions of Dr. E.G. Ervin (1937), both in good condition.
102
Annotated by Marlo
98
98. [Fleming Classics] Five books from the Fleming Classic Magic series. Including The Fine Art of Magic (1948), A Conjuring Melange (1947), Magic Without Apparatus (1945), Our Magic (1946), and Sleight of Hand (1946). All in publisher’s cloth with jackets, illustrated and 8vo. Generally good condition. 100/200
102. Fulves, Karl. The Book of Numbers. [Teaneck], 1971. Publisher’s wraps. Illustrated. 8vo. Light wear at spine, overall good condition. 50/100 The margins and white space on most pages in this publication contain the handwritten annotations of Ed Marlo. Many of them offer sharp criticisms of the contents. To wit: in reference to the title of the second effect in the book, Cards and a Number…, Marlo writes, “For a simpleton”. Other ideas are labeled as “childish,” lacking in credit to both Marlo and Vernon, and “not worth the preparation.” Many of the pages in the book have also been numbered in Marlo’s hand. With: Fulves Book of Numbers Supplementary Notes, in very good condition.
99. Forrester, Stephen. A Bibliography of Magic Classics. Calgary, 1993. Publisher’s maroon leather stamped in gold and locking mechanism incorporated into binding as issued. Numerous tipped-in photographs. Number 142 from an edition of 150 signed copies, being one of 75 produced in this “deluxe” binding. 4to. Prospectus and other materials laid in. Fine condition. 200/300 100. Forte, Steve. Casino Game Protection and Poker Protection. Las Vegas, 2004 and 2006. Publisher’s laminated pictorial boards, illustrated with photographs. 4to. Good condition. Both books signed and inscribed by Steve Forte to Herb Zarrow, and with a long TLS from Forte to Zarrow laid in. 150/250
103 103. Fulves, Karl (ed.). Charles T. Jordan Collected Tricks. Teaneck, 1975. Pictorial wraps, comb bound. 4to. Good condition. 50/100
101. Fulves, Karl. The Best of Slydini…and More. New York, 1976. Two volumes in publisher’s pebbled black faux leather. 8vo. Good condition. One volume signed and inscribed by Slydini. 50/100
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 21
104. Fulves, Karl (ed.) Collection of periodicals edited by Karl Fulves. Including Off the Books (N1 – N10; likely a complete file), Prolix N1 and N2, The Fine Print N4, Verbatim N4 – 10, Rigamarole N4 – N10 (but lacking N9), and near-complete files of Discoverie, Latter Day Secrets and Charlatan (all lacking N5 for completion), with miscellaneous flyers, notes, letters and advertisements tipped in to the various issues. All in publisher’s wraps and 8vo. Bindings vary. High original cost. Condition generally good. 250/350 105. Fulves, Karl. Group of 13 comb-bound Karl Fulves card magic publications. Including 28 Card Tricks (1991), Card Counting (1982), Clockwork (2005), Color Quick (1980), Combo (1998), Combo II (2005), Crooked Tales (1994, with an unsigned letter from Fulves to Zarrow laid in), Gene Finnell’s Card Magic (1973), Impromptu Holdouts (1977), Mutus Nomen (1998), New Card Controls (2001), Under Tension (2004), and When Psychics Play Poker (2004). All in publisher’s wraps and illustrated and 4to. High original cost. Good condition. 200/300
108. Fulves, Karl. Group of 12 Karl Fulves publications about riffle and faro shuffles. Including Color Capture (1986), Faro Concepts (1977), Faro Possibilities (1979), The Return Trip (1986), Riffle Shuffle Controls Part Two: Blocking Off (1996), Riffle Shuffle Methods (1987), Riffle Shuffle Set-Ups (1973), Riffle Shuffle Technique III (1984), Riffle Shuffle Technique Preliminary Notes on Part One (n.d.), Riffle Shuffle Technique Preliminary Notes on Part Two (1973), Setting Up Exercises (1995), and Shuffle Off (1983). All in publisher’s wraps and illustrated; most 4to and comb bound. Condition generally very good. 200/300 109. Fulves, Karl. Group of 13 Karl Fulves publications about card magic. Including Cards Vols. #1 – 5 (v.d.), Fr. Cyprian on the Hofzinser Card Problem (1978), Fr. Cyprian’s TV Card Rise (1982), Fourcast (1981), Millennium Aces (1981), Octet (1981), Origins (1981), The Spread Half-Pass (1978), Wireless II (1982). All in publisher’s wraps. Most 8vo. Very good condition. 150/300
106 106. Fulves, Karl. Group of 12 Karl Fulves publications about magic and card tricks. Including 13 Prophets (1996), And a Packet of Cards (1989), Command Colors (1997), Gambling Notes (by Neal Elias, 2000), Kannibal Kards (1975), Kaleidoscope (1989), The Magic Thrust (2001), McGuire on Malini (n.d.), New Card Rises (1996), The Noir Test (1998), Prototype (1989, with props), and Quick Card Tricks (1989). All but McGuire on Malini in publisher’s wraps, staple bound, and 4to. High original cost. Good condition. 150/250 107. Fulves, Karl. Group of 14 Karl Fulves publications about card magic, sleights and principles. Including A Hisory of the Brainwave Principle (1983), Covenant (1987), Bob Hummer’s Collected Secrets (1980), Methods with Cards parts 1 - 3 (1975), Packet Switches parts three – five (v.d.), Secret Session parts 1 - 3 (v.d.), Transpotrix (1978), and Worknotes on Brainwave (1983). All in publisher’s wraps and 4to; bindings vary. Good condition. 150/250
22 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
110 110. Fulves, Karl. Group of 19 Karl Fulves publications about card magic. Including Animation (1979), Card Under Glass (1979), Four Color Problems (1979), Gambler’s Third Lesson (1979), Jack in the Box (1979), Impromptu Opener (1979), Inner Sanctum (1979), Mexican Monte (1972), Murray Bonfeld’s Blackjack System (1980), New Submarine Card (1983), Notes from Underground (1973), The Nyria Effect (1979), Parallel Lines (1980), Shape Changers (1979), Six Impromptu Card Tricks (1982), Topological False Count (1979), and others. Most in publisher’s wraps, some accompanied by special cards. 8vo. Very good condition. 200/300
111. Fulves, Karl. Group of 13 Karl Fulves publications about magic tricks. Including Close-Up Mental Magic (1974), Contemporary Handkerchief Magic parts one and two (1987), Contemporary Rope Magic (1986), Curioser (1980), Day for Any Date (1997), Deceptive Practices (1992), A Die of Another Color (1995), Hex Squared (2001), Lost Vampire Secrets (2000), Money Moves (1989), S-C No. 1 (1985), and Vampire Chronicles (1997). All in publisher’s wraps and 4to. Good condition. 150/250 115 115. Ganson, Lewis. Dai Vernon’s Inner Card Trilogy. Tahoma, 1996. Black leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase, being number 70 from the publisher’s limited, deluxe edition. Illustrated. 8vo. Signed and numbered by Dai Vernon. 100/200
112 112. Swindle Sheet (and Cheat). Karl Fulves. N1 (1990) – N10 (1992) of both titles, with supplements, pictorial envelopes, apparatus, gambling kits and apparatus as issued. Complete files. Good condition. Uncommon. Alfredson/Daily 65703 and 15550. 300/400 These periodicals were issued and mailed simultaneously, along with small packets of apparatus and material associated with the tricks and ideas they contain (which, while present, have not been examined in detail for their completeness; all periodicals are present, and while gambling kits and supplements are present, they have not been closely examined). Complete files of these publications have never before been offered at auction.
113. Underworld (and Fine Print). Karl Fulves. N1 (1995) – N10 (1999). Complete file of Underworld, including apparatus, numerous flyers and index, as issued; Fine Print lacks N4. Good condition. Alfredson/Daily 69206 and 22102. 100/200 With: Nat Litt’s Secret File. N1 – N 24. Complete file. Issued by Karl Fulves.
116 116. Ganson, Lewis. Dai Vernon’s Tribute to Nate Leipzig. London, n.d. Publisher’s cloth, illustrated with photographs. 8vo. Jacket worn, otherwise good condition. Signed and inscribed by Dai Vernon to Conrad “Connie” Bush. 75/150 117. Ganson, Lewis. Group of 10 Lewis Ganson magic books. Including The Art of Close-Up Magic Vol. 1 (n.d.), The Expert Manipulation of Playing Cards (n.d.), The Ganson Book (1982), Give A Magician Enough Rope (1978), Magic of the Mind (n.d.), Routined Manipulation 1, 2 and Finale (all first editions and hardbound with jackets), Serpent Silk Plus Other Routines (n.d.), and Ultimate Secrets of Card Magic (n.d.). Most in publisher’s cloth with jackets and 8vo. Generally good condition. 100/200
114. Ganson, Lewis. The Dai Vernon Book of Magic. Tahoma, 1994. Black leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase, being number 19 in the publisher’s limited, deluxe edition. Illustrated. 8vo. Signed and numbered by Dai Vernon. 100/200
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 23
118 120 118. Ganson, Lewis. The Magic of Slydini. London, n.d. Publisher’s pebbled maroon cloth, illustrated with photographs. 4to. Jacket chipped, otherwise good condition. Signed and inscribed by
Slydini to Herb Zarrow, “a brother magician.”
75/150 With: Ganson, Lewis. The Annotated Magic of Slydini. Tahoma, 2001. Very good condition.
120. Gardner, Martin. Group of 20 magic, math and puzzle books by Martin Gardner. Including aha! Gotcha (1982), The Ambidexterous Universe (1979), The Annotated Alice (1960; signed and inscribed) Encyclopedia of Impromptu Magic (1978), Favorite Mother Goose Rhymes (1941), The Mathemagician and Pied Puzzler (1999; signed by Gardner), Mathematical Carnival (1975), Mathematics, Magic & Mystery (1956), Over the Coffee Cups (1949), Science Good, Bad and Bogus (1981), and others. Sizes and bindings vary. Generally good condition. 100/200 121. Gardner, Martin. Martin Gardner Presents. [Silver Spring], 1993. Number 27 from the publisher’s limited, deluxe edition of 50 copies bound in brown faux alligator skin with matching slipcase and ribbon bookmark. Illustrated. 4to. Very good condition. Signed by Martin Gardner. 200/300
119
119. Garcia, Frank. Collection of 13 magic and gambling books by Frank Garcia. Including The Close-Up Magic of Frank Garcia Vols. 1 and 2 (1982), Don’t Bet on It (1978), The Elegant Card Magic of Father Cyprian (1980), The Encyclopedia of Sponge Ball Magic (1976), Exclusive Card Miracles (1980), Exclusive Card Secrets (1980), Marked Cards and Loaded Dice (1962; signed and inscribed by Garcia to Conrad “Connie” Bush), Million Dollar Card Secrets (1972), The Real Secrets of the Three-Ball Routines (1978), Super Subtle Card Miracles (1973), The Very Best of Cups and Balls (1979), and Wild Card Miracles (1977). Most in pictorial wraps and 8vo. Condition generally good. 150/250
24 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
122. Gibson, Walter. Collection of over 30 Walter Gibson magic books. Including The Book of Secrets (1927), The Bunco Book (1946), The Complete Illustrated Book of Card Magic (1969), The Complete Illustrated Book of Close-Up Magic (1980), Walter Gibson’s Encyclopedia of Magic & Conjuring (1976), Houdini on Magic (1953), Magic Made Easy (1932), The Master Magicians (1966), Norgil the Magician (1977), Norgil More Tales of Prestidigitation (1979), The Original Houdini Scrapbook (1976), The World’s Best Book of Magic (1927), and others. Some duplication. Sizes and bindings vary. Generally good condition. 75/150
123. Ginn, David. Promoting Me – and You Vols. I and II. Norcross, 1979 – 1983. Each from the publisher’s limited, numbered editions. Both in publisher’s cloth, stamped in gold. 4to. Cloth of Vol. II lightly soiled, otherwise both in good condition. 100/200 Each of these volumes is comprised of brochures, postcards (tipped in), letterheads, photographs, posters, mailings and publicity pieces contributed to the publication by individual performers, then supplemented with the author’s comments and suggestions, and finally bound into book form.
127. Goldston, Will. Further Exclusive Magical Secrets. London, n.d. Deluxe first edition. Publisher’s red cloth stamped in gold. Illustrated. 4to. Bumps and wear at extremities of binding, lacks lock, hasp and key as issued, otherwise good condition. 150/300
124. Giobbi, Roberto. Card College, Vols. 1-5 and Card College Light. Seattle, 1996 - 2006. Publisher’s cloth with jackets, illustrated. 8vo. Very good condition. 75/150 125. Goldston, Will. Group of 12 Will Golston magic publications. Including Annuals of Magic (for 1909 - 10, 1910 - 11, 1911 - 12 and 1915 - 16), Card System of Exclusive Magical Secrets (n.d.), Easy Road to Magic (n.d.), Great Tricks Revealed (1955), Magical Hints (n.d.), Tricks & Illusions (n.d.; ninth edition), Tricks You Should Know (n.d., ca. 1930), Tricks of the Masters (1942), and Tricks that Mystify (ca. 1930). Sizes and binding vary, but most in publisher’s cloth, elaborately illustrated, and 8vo. Condition varies from fair to very good. 200/300
128
128. Goldston, Will. More Exclusive Magical Secrets. London, n.d. Trade edition. Publisher’s tan cloth stamped in black. Illustrated. 4to. Corners of first two-dozen leaves bumped, otherwise very good condition. Nice Copy. 150/300 129. Gravatt, Glen (compiler). Thayer Catalog Instruction Sheets Vols. 1-4. Oakland, 1978-1981. Publisher’s cloth, illustrated. 8vo. Vols. 1 and 4 lacking jackets, otherwise good condition. 150/250
126 130 126. Goldston, Will. Exclusive Magical Secrets. London, n.d. Deluxe first edition. Publisher’s pebbled red leather stamped in gold. Portrait frontispiece, illustrated. 4to. Lacking boundin lock and key as originally issued, and spine significantly chipped. Fair condition. 150/300
130. Green, Cliff. Professional Card Magic. New York, 1961. Blue cloth with color image laid down on front cover as issued. Illustrated. 8vo. Very good condition. Signed and inscribed by Cliff Green to Herb Zarrow. 75/150
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 25
132 131
133
139
26 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
134
140
The Harbin Book 131. Harbin, Robert. The Magic of Robert Harbin. [London], 1970. Number 80 in a limited edition of 500 copies, signed and numbered by the author. Publisher’s pebbled green cloth stamped in gold. 4to. Very good condition. 1,000/1,200 Never reprinted or anthologized, The Magic of Robert Harbin remains sought after by collectors, and even more so, one of the essential handbooks on illusions and platform magic some 40 years after its publication. With: The Harbin Book. London, 1983. Publisher’s pebbled green cloth stamped in gold. Illustrated. Small 4to. This book contains the transcription of an interview with Harbin. 132. Hardeen (Theodore Weiss). Life and History of Hardeen. [New York], ca. 1920. Pictorial wraps, illustrated. 8vo. Light toning to edges, otherwise very good condition. 50/100 133. Harris, Paul. Collection of 18 Paul Harris publications. Including A Close-Up Kinda Guy (1983), The Art of Astonishment Vols. 1-3 (1996), Close-Up Entertainer (1979), Close-Up Fantasies (three volumes, 1980-81), Close-Up Seductions (1984), Las Vegas Close-Up (1978), Super Swindle (1977), Supermagic (1977), and others. Various bindings and sizes. Good condition. A Close-Up Kinda Guy signed and warmly inscribed by Harris to Herb Zarrow. 150/250 134. Hartman, J.K. Card Craft. [Silver Spring], 1991. Publisher’s green laminated boards, illustrated. 4to. Very good condition. 100/200 135. Hatch, Richard (trans.) The Magic of J.N. Hofzinser. Omaha, 1985. Brown leather stamped in gold with jacket, from the publisher’s limited, deluxe edition. Illustrated. 8vo. Very good condition. 100/200 136. [Hermetic Press] Collection of 21 magic books published by Hermetic Press. Including A Life Among Secrets (with Eddie Fields’ Secret Diary, 1992), By Forces Unseen (1993), Ken Krenzel’s Close-Up Impact! (1990), Enchantments (2004), Focus (1990), Maurice Fogel: In Search of the Sensational (2007), Kort (1999), Mind, Myth & Magick (1993), Modus Operandi (1992), The Paper Engine (2002), Paramiracles (1992), Tricks of the Imagination (1991), Paul Curry’s World’s Beyond (2001), and others. Most being first editions in publisher’s cloth with jackets and 8vo. High original cost. Condition generally good. 300/500
137. Hertz, Carl. A Modern Mystery Merchant. London, 1924. Blue cloth stamped in black. Portrait frontispiece, illustrated with plates. 8vo. Light scuffing to cloth, overall good condition. 50/100 138. Hilliard, J.N. Greater Magic. Minneapolis, 1938. First edition, first impression. Illustrated. 4to. Front hinge starting and dust jacket chipped, otherwise good condition. 150/250 The first impression of Greater Magic contains a chapter titled “Old and New Magic” that was replaced by another, titled “Magicana” and written by Leo Rullman in all subsequent editions. 139. Hilliard, J.N. Greater Magic. Washington, D.C., 1994. Two volumes in matching black leather stamped in gold with maroon leather slipcase, as issued. Number 71 from the publisher’s limited, deluxe signed and numbered edition. The second volume in the set contains publisher Richard Kaufman’s fascinating and important treatise titled More Greater Magic. 8vo. Very good condition. Signed by Richard Kaufman. 150/250 140. [Magic History] Collection of 40 magic books about magic history and collecting. Including Adventures of 51 Magicians and a Fakir (ca. 2004), An Illustrated History of White Magic Before Robert-Houdin (2002), The Annals of Conjuring (1983), Arithmetical Divination From Charlemagne’s Court to Leonardo da Vinci (2000), Chronicle of Magic 1900 – 1999 (2003; one of a limited, numbered edition), S.W. Erdnase: Another View (1991), European Jewish Magicians 1933 - 1945 (1999), From Witchcraft to Card Tricks (1991), The Houdini Code Mystery (2000), Houdini’s History of Magic in Boston (1983), Inside Magic (1947), The Life and Times of Augustus Rapp (1959; signed by Rapp), Notes on Wazuma (1990), Victorian Age Conjuring Books (1991), You Don’t Have to be Crazy But it Helps! (1946), and others. Sizes and bindings vary; many from limited editions or privately circulated. High original cost. Condition generally good. 700/900 141. Hobbs, Stephen. Gene Maze and the Art of Bottom Dealing. Washington, D.C., 1994. Brown leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase. Being number 26 from the publisher’s limited, deluxe, signed and numbered edition. Illustrated. 8vo. Slipcase scuffed, otherwise very good condition. 50/100
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 27
145. [Houdini] Group of 19 books and publications about Houdini. Including Houdini!!! (1996; signed and inscribed by Kenneth Silverman to Herb Zarrow), Notes to Houdini!!! (1996; one of a limited edition of 500), Houdini His Legend and His Magic (1977), Houdini A Pictorial Life (1976), The Secret Life of Houdini (2006; signed by the authors), Where Houdini Was Wrong (1950; bound in blue pictorial wraps), and others. Sizes and bindings vary. Generally good condition. 100/200 142 142. Hoffmann, Professor (Angelo Lewis). Modern Magic. New York, 1876. First American edition. Publisher’s pictorial green cloth stamped in black and gold. “With 318 illustrations.” 8vo. Very light wear at extremities, but overall a bright, tight example of this important work. Very good condition. Nice copy. 100/200 143. Hoffmann, Professor (Angelo Lewis). Four Professor Hoffmann classics. Including Modern Magic, More Magic, Later Magic and Latest Magic, the first three being later American editions, and Latest Magic being the first edition of this work. All in publisher’s cloth, copiously illustrated and 8vo. Condition varies from fair to very good. 150/250 Though Hoffmann was a prolific author, the four titles in this lot comprise his main body of work concerned with conjuring; Modern Magic and its “sequels” are universally regarded as foundational works on conjuring and to have changed the landscape of magic publishing.
146. Houdini, Harry (ed). Elliott’s Last Legacy. New York, 1923. Publisher’s red cloth stamped in black, illustrated. 8vo. Good condition. 75/150
147 147. Houdini, Harry. Houdini’s Paper Magic. New York, 1922. First edition, second printing. Publisher’s red cloth stamped in black. Colored frontispiece. Illustrated. 8vo. Light wear at corners of several pages, otherwise very good condition. 50/100
144 144. Hopkins, Albert (ed.). Magic. Stage Illusions and Scientific Diversions Including Trick Photography. New York, 1897. Publisher’s yellow pictorial cloth stamped in black and red. Engraved frontispiece. Illustrated. Large 8vo. Cloth rubbed and darkened, ffep clipped, but overall very good condition. Nice copy. 50/150
28 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
148 148. Houdini, Harry. Miracle Mongers and Their Methods. New York, 1920. First edition. Publisher’s cloth with uncommon original dust jacket. Illustrated with plates. 8vo. Jacked chipped at extremities, otherwise good condition. 200/300
149. Houdini, Harry. The Right Way to do Wrong. Boston, 1906. Red pictorial wraps, illustrated with line drawings. Portrait frontispiece of Houdini. 8vo. Spine and extremities chipped and worn as usually encountered, covers nearly detached; fair condition. 75/150
150
152. Ibidem. Howard Lyons. N1 (Jun. 1955) – N36 (Mar. 1979). Complete file, bound in three matching volume from an authorized reprint edition, and Vol. 1 being number 34 from a deluxe, leather bound, signed and numbered limited edition of 50 copies. Good condition. Alfredson/Daily 2885. 75/150 153. [Illusions and Escapes] Collection of over 35 books about stage illusions and escapes. Including 33 Rope Ties and Chain Releases (1915), The Art of Illusion (n.d.), Build Your Own Illusions (1974), The Encyclopedia of Suspensions and Levitations (1976), Escapes (1955), Grant’s Illusion Secrets (n.d.), The Great Illusions of Magic (1977, two vols.), The Handcuff King Act (ca. 1976), Illusionworks (1993), Modern Handcuff Secrets for Magicians (1957), Modern Illusions (1968), Stage Illusions for the 1-2 or 3 Performer Show 1972), Tops Treasury of Illusions (1965), U.F. Grant’s Illusion Secrets (1981), Window Stoppers (n.d.), and others. Bindings and sizes vary, but most 4to. Generally good condition. 150/250
150. Houdini, Harry. The Unmasking of Robert-Houdin. New York, 1908. Publisher’s pictorial cloth stamped in two colors. Copiously illustrated. 8vo. Light bumps and wear to cloth, otherwise very good condition. 200/300
154
151
151. Hugard, Jean. Group of 24 Jean Hugard magic books. Including Card Manipulations (n.d.), More Card Manipulations (n.d.), The Encyclopedia of Card Tricks (1937; first edition), Expert Card Technique (1940; first edition), Hugard’s Annual of Magic 1937 (1937), Hugard’s Annual of Magic 1938 – 1939 (1939), The Invisible Pass (1946; signed by Hugard), Modern Magic Manual (1939; first edition),
The Royal Road to Card Magic (1948; first edition), and others. Sizes and bindings vary, but most 8vo. Some duplication. High original cost. Condition varies, but generally good. 100/200
154. James, Stewart. Stewart James In Print: The First Fifty Years. Toronto, 1989. Publisher’s black cloth stamped in silver with matching slipcase and file of “Collector’s Memorabilia.” Number 39 in a limited, deluxe edition of 200. 4to. Corner of case bumped and three pages worn, otherwise good condition. Numbered, signed and inscribed by Stewart James to Herb Zarrow. 200/300 155. James, Stewart. The James File. Toronto, 2000. Three volumes in black cloth stamped in silver. Number 69 of the publisher’s limited, deluxe edition in matching slipcase with packet of collector’s memorabilia. Illustrated. 4to. Very good condition. Signed and numbered by editor Allan Slaight. 150/250
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 29
157
157
156. Jay, Ricky. Group of five books by Ricky Jay. Including Cards as Weapons (1977; large format paperback edition), Dice (2003), Extraordinary Exhibitions (2005), Jay’s Journal of Anomalies (2001), and Learned Pigs & Fireproof Women (1986). Sizes and bindings vary. Generally good condition. 150/250 157. Jay, Ricky. The Magic Magic Book. [New York], 1994. Two letterpress printed volumes in publisher’s embossed wraps, housed in a blue cloth slipcase stamped in red and grey. From a limited edition of 300 copies. 4to. Very good condition. 1,500/2,000 Contributors to this book include William Wegman, Vija Celmins, Jane Hammond, Glenn Ligon, Justen Ladda and Philip Taaffe. One volume is an extended treatise, written by Ricky Jay, on the history of the venerable “blow book”; the second volume is a functional blow book illustrated with artwork created by the contributors. Of the 300 copies issued, only 100 were sold to the general public by the publisher, The Whitney Museum of New York. Laid in to this copy are a prospectus for the publication, and an ALS from Ricky Jay to Herb and Phyllis Zarrow on Jay’s letterhead. 158. Jay’s Journal of Anomalies. Ricky Jay. V1 N1 (Spr. 1994) – V4 N4 (2000). Complete file of original issues. Very good condition. Alfredson/Daily (Fernandes) 30555. 100/200 159. The Jinx. Theo Annemann. N1 – N151 (Dec. 1941). Complete Bound in three matching pebbled cloth volumes, spines stamped in gold. Good condition. Alfredson/Daily 3065. 100/200
file.
30 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
160 160. [Kaufman and Greenberg] Collection of 40 magic books published by Kaufman and Greenberg. New York and Washington D.C., 1980s – 2000s. Including After Craft (1995), Arcade Dreams (1997), The Book or Don’t Forget to Point (1998), Cardworks (1981), The Complete Works of Derek Dingle (1982), David Roth’s Expert Coin Magic (First Edition in slipcase, 1985), The Gene Maze Card Book (1980), Jennings ’67 (1997), Livesavers (1991), Mysteries of My Life (1998), The Secrets of Brother John Hamman (1989), Strong Magic (1994), Williamson’s Wonders (1989), and others. Most titles in publisher’s cloth with jackets, illustrated and 4to. High original cost. Condition generally very good. 500/600
161. Kaufman, Richard. Steel and Silver. [Silver Spring], 1994. Maroon leather stamped in silver with ribbon bookmark. Being number 6 from the publisher’s limited, deluxe, signed and numbered edition of fifty copies. Illustrated. 4to. Very good condition. 50/150 162. Kaufman, Richard. Show Time at the Tom-Foolery. [Silver Spring], 1992. Brown leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase. Number 50 from the publisher’s limited, deluxe edition. Illustrated. 4to. As new. Signed by Kaufman and Mullica. 150/250
163 163. [Kid Show Magic] Group of 33 publications about performing magic for children. Including Big Laughs for Little People (1990), Children Laugh Louder (1978), Doing Magic for Youngsters (1948), Entertaining Children with Magic (1939), Kidbiz (1982), Kid Stuff Vols. 1, 3, 4 and 5 (v.d.), The Land of Make Believe (1972), Laughter All The Way (1978), Magic and Monsters For Kids I Love (1984), Open Sesame (1947), Playing with Magic (1953), Profit at the Party (1981), and others. Sizes and bindings vary, but most cloth bound and 8vo. High original cost. Generally good condition. 100/200
166. [Lecture Notes] Collection of over 100 magicians’ lecture notes. Including many privately circulated or from limited publications. Many signed and inscribed. Titles include Additional Deceptions From Derek Dingle (n.d.), Vanni Bossi Lectures Notes Las Vegas 2007 (2007); Francis Carlyle Lecture Notes (n.d., signed and inscribed by Carlyle), A Composition – Rene Lavand Lecture Notes (1998), The Five Points in Magic by Juan Tamariz (n.d.); Fred Kaps Lecture (1972); An Ancient Empty Street, At the Expense of Grey Matter, and Lecture 1988 by William Goodwin; Tricks: A Collection of Old and New by David Regal (2000); Tommy Wonder Entertains (1983); A Visit with Larry Jennings (n.d.); What If? The Chuck Smith Notes (1994); and many others. Bindings and sizes vary, but most 4to. High original cost. Good condition. 150/250 167. [Lecture Notes] Collection of over 120 magicians’ lecture notes. Including many privately circulated or from limited publications. Many signed and inscribed. Titles include Coin Magic and the Art of Sleeving by J.B. Bobo (1952), Eric Decamps Compositions of Conjuring (2001), Darwin’s Confidential Lecture Notes (n.d.), F.F.F.F. 2000 Lecture Notes by Jorg Alexander (2000), Milton Kort Lecture Notes edited by Ron Bauer (n.d.), Laid Back Lecture by Chris Power (1996), Geoffrey Latta on Cards and Coins (1981), The Lecture Book by David Regal (n.d.), Gene Maze Unpublished (1997), More Additional Deceptions by Derek Dingle (n.d., signed and inscribed), Tale Twisters by Roy Walton (n.d.), The Three Faces of Steve by Stephen Minch (1987, signed and inscribed), and many others. Bindings and sizes vary, but most 4to. High original cost. Good condition. 150/250
164. Klosterman, Kenneth. Salon de Magie. Loveland, 2006. Publisher’s pebbled green imitation leather, illustrated with photographs. From a limited edition of 450 copies. 4to. Good condition. 100/200 165. [L&L Publishing] Collection of 26 magic books produced by L&L Publishing. Including Billion Dollar Bunko (2003), The Card Magic of Nick Trost (1997), The Chronicles (1997), The Classic Magic of Larry Jennings (1986), The Close-Up Magic of Aldo Colombini (1994), The Commercial Magic of J.C. Wagner (1994), Impossibilia (1990), Dai Vernon’s Inner Card Trilogy (1996), Simon Says (signed and inscribed,
1997), Son of Simon Says (2000), Spectacle (1990), Ultra Cervon (1990), and more. Most being first editions, and all in publisher’s cloth with jackets; most 4to. High original cost. Condition generally very good. 300/500
168 168. LePaul, Paul (Paul Braden). The Card Magic of LePaul. [Chicago], 1949. Publisher’s red cloth stamped in black and blue. Illustrated with photographs. Number 25 from the first edition of 500 copies. Light wear at spine and extremities, otherwise good condition. Signed and inscribed by LePaul “to my good friend Rufus Steele.” 50/100
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 31
172. [Magic Books] Collection of 23 hardbound books about magic tricks. Including Class Act: The Magic of Tony Binarelli (1991), Chanin: The Man with the Magic Hands (2002), Expert Cigarette Magic (1932), The Fine Art of Hocus Pocus (1996; signed and inscribed by the publisher), The Magic of Louis S. Histed (1947), Magically Yours (1953), Magicomedy (1981), Magneticoins (1971), Methods for Miracles (n.d.; 14 vols. bound in one), Simply Wizard (1946), Third Dimension (1977), Wit & Wizardry (1998), Wonderful Routines of Magic (1969), Wonderful Routines of Magic the Second Addendum (1994), Page Wright’s Manuscript (1991), and others. Most in publisher’s cloth with jackets and 8vo. High original cost. Condition generally good. 150/250
169
169. Lorayne, Harry. Collection of 22 Harry Lorayne card magic books. Including Afterthoughts (1975), Best of Friends Vols. 1-3 (1982-2007), Classic Collection (2005), Close-Up Card Magic (1962), Deck-Sterity (1967), The Epitome Location (1976), Miracle Math (1966), Personal Collection (2001), Personal Secrets (1964), Prof. Magic’s 52 Tricks (n.d.), Quantum Leaps (1979), Reputation-Makers (1971), Rim Shots (1973), and others. Most in publisher’s cloth with jackets and 8vo. Condition generally good. Many volumes warmly signed and inscribed by
Lorayne to Herb Zarrow. 250/350
170. Lorenceau, Etienne. Le Dragon Apprivoisé. Paris, 1991. Publisher’s bright blue cloth stamped in gold with matching slipcase. Illustrated. 4to. warmly signed and inscribed by Lorenceau to Herb Zarrow. 100/200 171. Magic. Ellis Stanyon. V1 N1 (Oct. 1900) – V15 N9 (Jun. 1920). Complete file. Number 408 from publisher’s limited reprint edition of 500, as issued in 1996 in three matching threequarter bound volumes in yellow cloth over maroon leather, with matching slipcase. Light wear at extremities of books, but overall good condition. Alfredson/Daily 3535. 200/300 With: Stanyon’s Serial Lessons in Conjuring, in matching slipcase and binding, as issued simultaneously with the above reprint edition.
32 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
173 173. [Magic Books] Group of 20 hardbound books about magic tricks. Including The Berg Book (1984), Collected Writings of Glen Gravatt (n.d.), The Essential Stewart James (2007; signed and inscribed), For My Next Trick by Karrell Fox (1986), Gold Mine of Magic by Glen Gravatt (1977), Martin’s Miracles by Martin Lewis (1985), Richard Himber The Man and His Magic (1980), The Magic of Gerald Kosky (1975), The Magic of Tenkai (1974), Richard Ross The Ring Routine (1982), The Royal Touch by Cellini (1997), Varied Deceptions (n.d.), and others. All in publisher’s cloth, some with jackets; sizes vary but most 4to. High original cost. Condition generally good. 150/250 174. [Magic Books] Group of 20 hardbound books about magic tricks. Including Abbott’s Encyclopedia of Rope Tricks Vols. 1 and 2 (n.d.), Amadeo’s Continental Magic (1974), Harry Anderson Wise Guy (1993; signed and inscribed by Harry Anderson), The Art of Eddie Joseph (n.d.), Christopher’s Favorite Routines (2000), Genie Presentations (n.d.), Magic in the Morris Manor (1974), The Magic of Pavel (1981), Maronick’s Original Magic (n.d.), Spins & Needles (2008), Theatrical Magic (1978), The Topit Book (1983; signed and inscribed by Michael Ammar), Tricks (2003), Meir Yedid’s Stage Stuff (1986; signed and inscribed), and others. Sizes and bindings vary. High original cost. Condition generally good. 200/300
175. [Magic Books] Group of 26 hardbound small-format magic books. Including …And A Pack of Cards by Jack Merlin (1940, revised edition in blue pictorial cloth), But Not to Play by Wilfrid Jonson (1946), Keith Clark’s Nite Club Act (1944), Club Magic by Bert Douglas (1930), For Magicians Only by Charles Waller (1923), Herrmann’s Book of Magic (1903), The Magic Art by Donald Holmes (1920), Paul Rosini’s Magical Gems by Robert Parrish (1950, from the limited deluxe clothbound edition), Secrets by U.F. Grant (n.d.), Mr. Smith’s Guide to Sleight of Hand by Wilfrid Jonson (1945), Ten Secrets of Modern Magic by Charles Stringer (1927), Waller’s Wonders by Charles Waller (1927), and others. Bindings vary, but most in cloth; all small 8vo. Good condition. 150/250
177. [Magic Books] Group of over 140 books and manuals about magic tricks. Including Abbott’s Magic for Magicians by Percy Abbott (1934), Advanced Magic by Ovette (1919), The Art of Body Loading and Productions by Eddie Joseph (1950), Berland’s Novel Cigarette Tricks (1934), The First Book of William by Billy McComb (1947), J.C. Cigar Magic by Jack Chanin (1937), J.C. Grand Finale by Jack Chanin (1940), Magic That Perks by Harry Cecil (1937), Jack Miller’s Linking Ring Routine (1945), The Odin Rings by Victor Farelli (1940), The Professional Technique for Magicians by Reneaux (1968), Reel Magic by Albeniece (1950), Silk At Your Fingertips by Jack Chanin (1952, signed and inscribed), The Skull Speaks by Lester Lake (1937), Tips on Tricks by Milbourne Christopher (1942), Weird Wonders for Wizards by Josolyne (ca. 1920), and many others. Sizes and bindings vary, but most in pictorial wraps, illustrated, and 8vo. Generally good condition. 150/250 178. Mahatma. George Little, et al. V1 N1 (Mar. 1895) – V9 N8 (Feb. 1906). Complete file. Number 29 from publisher’s limited deluxe reprint edition of 50, as issued in 1994 in two matching black pebbled leather bound volumes with matching slipcase. Wear to extremities of case, otherwise good condition. Alfredson/Daily 4655. 200/300
176 176. [Magic Books] Group of 31 British books about magic tricks. Including Pearson “Yellow Perils,” Will Golston publications, and other pre-1950 titles. Among the titles are Card Tricks Without Skill (1946), The Conjurer’s Vade Meccum (n.d.), The Drawing Room Entertainer (1922), Harry Leat publications (a complete set of eight volumes bound in one), Magical Suggestions (1921), More Conjuring (1912), My Mysteries (1924), Original Mysteries for Magicians (n.d.), Paper Magic (1923), Ring Up the Curtain (1930), Secrets of Modern Conjuring (ca. 1920), Something New In Magic (1929; Robert Harbin’s first book), Westminster Wizardry (ca. 1924), Whirlwind of Wizardry (1919), and others. Many in cloth or pictorial boards, but bindings vary; all small 8vo. Condition varies, but generally good. 300/500
179
179. Marlo, Edward (Edward Malkowski). The Cardician. Chicago, 1953. Publisher’s blue cloth with pictorial dust jacket. Illustrated. 8vo. Number 203 of the special library edition. Wear to endpapers and extremities of jacket chipped and torn, front hinge worn at top; tipped-in statement of limitation stained as usually found. Overall good condition. Signed by Marlo. 250/350
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 33
180. Marlo, Edward (Edward Malkowski). Group of over 34 Marlo publications. Most being first editions or first printings as issued from Chicago both privately and by Magic, Inc., and including Action Palm (1956), A Devilish Miracle (1948), Early Marlo (two editions; 1964 and 1976), The Future Classic (n.d.), M.I.N.T. Vols. 1-2 (v.d.), Marlo Meets his Match (1959), Marlo Without Tears (1983), Second, Centers, Bottoms (scarce perfect bound first edition, 1960), Shoot the Works (1943), Tilt (1962), Unlimited (n.d.), and many others. Most bound in wraps, illustrated, and 8vo. Condition generally good. A Devilish Miracle Signed by Marlo D’amico; Action Palm signed and inscribed “To Herb Zarrow a cardician who I feel will do justice to the contents of this book.” Cardially Yours, Edward Marlo 3/5/56.” 100/200 Herb Zarrow and Ed Marlo’s relationship soured in the 1950s and their friendship was never repaired, making the signed and inscribed copy of Action Palm offered in this lot a relative rarity. and
180
181. Marlo, Edward (Edward Malkowski). M.I.N.T. Volume I. Tahoma, 1988. Black leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase, being number 71 from the publisher’s limited, deluxe edition. 8vo. Very good condition. 75/150 182. Marlo, Ed. Marlo’s Magazine Vol. 1. Chicago, 1976. Combbound pictorial brown wraps. Illustrated. Number 187 from the publisher’s limited first edition. Good condition. Signed and inscribed by
182
Marlo. 75/150
183. Marlo, Ed. Marlo’s Magazine Vol. 2. Chicago, 1977. Comb-bound pictorial wraps. Illustrated. Number 117 from the publisher’s limited first edition. Good condition. Signed and inscribed by Marlo. 75/150 184. Marlo, Ed. Marlo’s Magazine Vol. 3. Chicago, 1979. Combbound pictorial color wraps. Illustrated. Number 114 from the publisher’s limited first edition. Good condition. Signed and inscribed by Marlo. 75/150
183
185. Marlo, Ed. Marlo’s Magazine Vol. 4. Chicago, 1981. Combbound pictorial color wraps. Illustrated. Number 154 from the publisher’s limited first edition. Good condition. Signed and inscribed by Marlo. 75/150
184
34 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
186. Marlo, Ed. Marlo’s Magazine Vol. 5. Chicago, 1984. Combbound pictorial color wraps. Illustrated. Number 207 from the publisher’s limited first edition. Rear wrap soiled and torn, otherwise good condition. Signed and inscribed by Marlo. 50/100 187. Marlo, Ed. Marlo’s Magazine Vol. 6. Chicago, 1988. Combbound pictorial color wraps. Illustrated. Number 178 from the publisher’s limited first edition. Light wear to wraps, otherwise good condition. Signed and inscribed by Marlo. 75/150 186
188. Marlo, Edward (Edward Malkowski). The Patented Shuffle. Chicago, 1964. Comb bound. Illustrated. 4to. Very good condition. Signed and inscribed by Marlo. 75/150 189. Maxwell, Mike. The Classic Magic of Larry Jennings. Lake Tahoe, 1986. Black leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase. Illustrated. Number 106 of the publisher’s limited, deluxe edition. 4to. Very good condition. Signed by Larry Jennings. 100/200 190. Maxwell, Mike. Larry Jennings’ The Cardwright. Tahoma, 1988. Publisher’s black leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase. Being number 75 from the publisher’s limited, deluxe, signed and numbered edition. 8vo. Very good condition. Signed by Larry Jennings. 75/150
189
190
191. [Mentalism] Group of 20 books about mentalism and mind reading. Including 13 Steps to Mentalism by Corinda (n.d.), The Art of Mentalism by Robert Cassidy (1984), The Billion Dollar Bait by Burling Hull (1977), The Book Without a Name by Theo Annemann (1931), Encyclopedia of Mentalism by Robert Nelson (1944, signed and inscribed), I’ll Read Your Mind by Aage Darling (1953), Mainly Mental Vol. 2 by C.L. Boarde (1950), The Mental Mysteries and Other Writings of William W. Larsen, Sr. (1977, signed and inscribed by the editor), Miracles of My Friends edited by Burton Sperber (1982, signed), Sealed Vision by Will Dexter (1956), and others. Sizes and bindings vary, but most in publisher’s cloth and 8vo. High original cost. Good condition. 300/400
191
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 35
192. [Mentalism] Group of over 100 softbound books about mentalism, hypnotism, and mind reading. Including Double Incidence by Al Mann (1986), The D.J.L. Mystery Series (Heart Beat Test, Pins Thru Flesh! and Famous Blood Stopping Test; n.d.), Effective Answers to Questions by R. Alan Nelson (1928), Hitting the Headlines by Eddie Joseph (1952), Master Key to Hypnotism by Konradi Leitner (1943), The Mental Magic of Basil Horowitz Vol. 1 (1981), Jean Hugard’s Mental Magic with Cards (1935), Phantini’s Mental Key by Gene Grant (1956), Dunninger’s Power by Hypnotism by David J. Lustig (n.d.), The Private Medium’s Secret Guide by Korda RaMayne (1942), Six Impossible Things by Al Mann (1983), Still More Miracles in Mentalism by Bob Nelson (1961), numerous other Nelson Enterprises titles, and many others. Sizes and bindings vary, but most in wraps. High original cost. Good condition. 300/400 193. Minch, Stephen. Carneycopia. Tahoma, 1991. Black leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase. Illustrated. Number 87 of the publisher’s limited, deluxe edition. 8vo. Very good condition. Signed by John Carney. 150/250
195
The Vernon Chronicles 195. Minch, Stephen et al. The Vernon Chronicles, Vols. 1-4. Tahoma, 1987-1992. A complete set of the deluxe, limited edition, each numbered, signed and bound in black leather stamped in gold with matching slipcases. 8vo. Laid in to Vol. 1 is the facsimile Vernon notebook not always encountered; books in good condition. All four volumes signed by Dai Vernon; volume three inscribed by Vernon: “To Herb Zarrow one of the best of my friends.” 500/750 196. Minch, Stephen et al. The Vernon Chronicles, Vols. 1-4. Tahoma, 1987-1992. A complete set of the cloth bound, trade edition of this indispensable set of books chronicling the magic and life of one of the art’s greatest practicioners, Dai Vernon. 8vo. Good condition. 100/200
194 194. Minch, Stephen. The Collected Works of Alex Elmsley, Vols. 1 and 2. Tahoma, 1991 and 1994. Both volumes bound in matching black leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase. Illustrated. Each from the publisher’s limited, deluxe, numbered and signed edition. 8vo. Very good condition. Both volumes signed and inscribed by Alex Elmsley to Herb and Phyllis Zarrow. 150/250 With: Publisher-issued facsimile of Elmsley’s manuscript for the Collected Works books, signed and inscribed by Elmsley to Herb & Phyllis Zarrow, and Elmsley’s Cardwork lecture notes, signed and inscribed to Herb Zarrow.
36 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
197. [Miracle Factory] Group of four magic books published by The Miracle Factory. Including Roy Benson by Starlight (2006), Cardini: The Suave Deceiver (2007; warmly signed and inscribed to Herb Zarrow by author John Fisher), The Essential RobertHoudin (2006), and The Silence of Chung Ling Soo (2001). All in publisher’s cloth with jackets and 4to. High original cost. Very good condition. 250/350 198. Mulholland, John. Group of eight magic books by or about John Mulholland. Including The Art of Illusion (armed services edition, 1944), Magic or Entertaining (1944), The Master Magician (by Lowell Thomas, ca. 1945), Modern Magician (in original mailing cover; 1937), John Mulholland’s Book of Magic (in cloth and paper; 1963), Quicker than the Eye (1932), and John Mulholland’s Story of Magic (1935). Sizes and bindings vary. Most in cloth with jackets and 8vo. Generally good condition. 50/150
199. Nathanson, Leon. Slydini Encores. New York, 1966. Publisher’s pebbled maroon cloth, illustrated with photographs. 8vo. Good condition. Signed and inscribed, “To my good friend Herb Zarrow..” by Slydini. 75/150
202 202. Okito (Tobias Theodore Bamberg). Quality Magic. London, ca. 1921. Publisher’s pictorial boards, illustrated. 8vo. Spine fragile and extremities rubbed, otherwise good condition. 50/150 With: Okito on Magic. Chicago, 1953. First edition. Jacket chipped, otherwise good condition.
200
A ‘Collection’ of Autographs 200. The New York Magic Symposium Collections, 1 – 5. V.p., 1982 – 86. All in publisher’s cloth, illustrated and 4to. Cloth of Collection One lightly soiled, but condition generally good. Collection One is signed by author Richard Kaufman, publisher Adam Fleischer, and contributors and performers including Paul Harris (twice), Tom Ogden, John Ferrentino, Bob Read, Ricky Jay, Michael Ammar, David Roth, Fantasio, Derek Dingle, John Cornelius, Levent, Larry Becker, Slydini Ken Krenzel, and Joe DeLion. 150/300
203. Ortiz, Darwin. Cardshark. [Silver Spring], 1991. Publisher’s black leather with ribbon bookmark, being number 38 from the publisher’s limited, deluxe edition of 50, with green cloth slipcase, as issued. Illustrated. 4to. Very good condition. Signed by Darwin Ortiz. 75/150 204. Pallbearers Review. Karl Fulves. V1 N1 (Nov. 1965) – V10 N12 (Oct. 1975). Complete file. Bound in three matching black leather volumes stamped in gold with matching slipcase. Number 92 in the publisher’s limited, deluxe reprint edition of 1993. Light wear to slipcase, otherwise very good condition. Each volume signed by Karl Fulves. Alfredson/Daily 5515. 200/300
205
201 201. Nikola, Louis. Magical Masterpieces. London, ca. 1925. Publisher’s cloth with pictorial jacket. Illustrated. 8vo. Jacket chipped, otherwise very good condition. 75/150
205. The Penumbra. William Goodwin and Gordon Bean. N1 (May/Jun. 2002) – N10 (Mar. 2006), and including the fake “Summer Extra” issued in August 2004. Good condition. 100/200 The “Summer Extra” was published as a gag, in a edition of approximately 75 copies. Originally mailed to a select number of Penumbra subscribers, the hoax was formally exposed when copies of the journal were distributed to attendees of the annual 31 Faces North conference in 2004 by those that had published and written it.
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 37
206. [Periodicals] Group of three reprint editions of magic periodicals. Including The Cardiste (one volume), The Pentagram (two volumes), and The Phoenix (six volumes). All complete files. Bindings and sizes vary. Good condition. 100/200
209. Potter, Jack. Potter’s Master Index to Magic In Print. Calgary, 1967. 14 volumes, ring-bound as issued. Included are eight supplements and two Charter Subscriber Bulletins. Complete set. 4to. Some wear to binders as expected, but generally good condition. 300/500
210 207
Never Before Offered for Sale 207. Pierce, Lance. New York City Conference. New York, 1996. Publisher’s brown leather with banded spine. From a limited edition of 29 copies. 4to. Very good condition. 400/600 Issued two years after the 1994 New York City Conference, this publication was distributed to those who attended the event, whose ideas and contributions to the gathering were recorded in its pages. Among those on the exclusive guest list were Daryl, Bernard Bilis, Jules Fisher, Ricky Jay, Bill Malone, Gary Plants, Robert Stencel, Juan Tamariz, Michael Weber, and Herb Zarrow. Never before have copies of this publication been made available for public sale. With: A program from the 1994 New York City Conference signed by the attendees, including Tom Gagnon, Ricky Jay, Juan Tamariz, Bill Malone, David Williamson, Bob Elliott, Daniel Rhod, Jules Fisher and Ray Kosby. 208. Pierce, Lance. Roger Klause In Concert. Tahoma, 1991. Black leather stamped in gold with publisher’s blue leather slipcase; number 92 in the publisher’s deluxe limited edition. Illustrated with photographs. 4to. Light wear at extremities of case, otherwise very good condition. Signed and numbered by Roger Klause. 150/250
38 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
210. Price, David. Magic: A Pictorial History of Conjurers in the Theatre. New York, 1985. Publisher’s cloth. Illustrated, including color plates. 4to. Very good condition. Signed and inscribed to F.W. Kuethe by David Price. 100/200 211. [Pulps] Collection of 26 pulp magic publications. Issued by publishers including Wheman Brothers, Ottenheimer, Shrewsbury and others. Titles include Black Hermann, Blackstone’s Magic, The Book of Card Tricks, Card Tricks Without Sleight of Hand or Apparatus (1940), The Fifty Best Conjuring Tricks, Fifty Card Tricks, Hermann’s Art of Magic, Herrman’s Black Art, Herrmann’s Book of Magic, How to Read People’s Minds, Mesmerism & Clairvoyance, New & Original Conjuring Tricks (1926), Secrets of Ancient & Modern Magic, Howard Thurston’s Card Tricks, Tricks with Coins, and others. Most 8vo. Condition varies from poor to very good. Should be seen. 100/200 212. [Racherbaumer] Group of Jon Racherbaumer magic publications. Including The Card Puzzle and Other Diversions (1983), The Hierophant (Complete File, including The Last Hierophant), Kabbala Vol. 3 (Tannen edition), The Lost Pages of The Kabbala (1981), On The Clock Effect (1971), The Universal Card (1972), and miscellenous issues of Kabbala, Olram File and one issue of Marlo Phile. Bindings vary, but most in wraps and saddle stitched. All 4to. Generally good condition. 75/150
217
213 213. [Ramsay] Group of seven books about the magic of John Ramsay. Including Cylinder and Coins (1948), Four Little Beans (1952), John Ramsay’s Routine with Cups and Balls (cloth binding, 1948), The Ramsay Classics (1977), The Ramsay Legend (1969),
217. Robert-Houdin, Jean Eugéne. The Secrets of Stage Conjuring. London, 1881. Revised edition. Publisher’s bright blue pictorial cloth, stamped in gold and black. Portrait frontispiece, illustrated. 8vo. Frontispiece and title page toned, tissue guard detached and small tears at head and foot of spine; otherwise very good condition. Still, an attractive and bright example. 75/150
The Triple Restoration (1949), and The Ramsay Reunion (1977). The latter is a program/outline of an audio recording of this convention, the balance of the books detail Ramsay’s tricks and methods. All 8vo and in good condition. 100/200 214. Randal, Jason. The Psychology of Deception (Why Magic Works). Venice, 1982. Brown faux leather stamped in gold. Number 101 from a limited edition of 500 copies. 8vo. Very good condition. Signed and inscribed by the author. 218
100/200 215. [Reference Books] Group of 13 magic reference books and bibliographies. Including The Annotated Discoverie of Witchcraft (2000; one of a limited edition of 500 copies), Bibliographie Der Spielbucher (1996), A Bibliography of Books on Conjuring 1580 – 1850 (1957), Directory of Magicians (1951; two vols), The Joyal Index (five volumes), Magic Magazines of the Second Millenium (2000), and others. Bindings and sizes vary. Condition generally good. 150/250
218. Robinson, Ben. Twelve Have Died. Watertown, 1986. Publisher’s cloth, illustrated. 8vo. Very good condition. Signed and inscribed to Herb Zarrow by publisher Raymond Goulet. 100/200
216. Rice, Harold, et al. Rice’s Encyclopedia of Silk Magic Vols. 1-4. V.p., 1948-1993. Publisher’s cloth with jackets, illustrated. 8vo. Jackets lightly worn and chipped, but good condition. 75/150
219 219. Romano, Chuck. The Art of Deception. Elgin, 1997. Publisher’s cloth with jacket. Number 155 from the first, limited, signed edition of 500 copies. 4to. Very good condition. 50/100
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 39
222. Skinner, Michael. Michael Skinner’s Classic Sampler. Tahoma, 1996. Black leather stamped in gold with matching slipcase, being number 74 in the publisher’s limited, deluxe edition. Illustrated with photographs. 4to. Very good condition. Signed by Michael Skinner. 75/150 With: Michael Skinner’s Intimate Magic (Oakland, 1982), bearing a lengthy, warm inscription from Skinner to Herb Zarrow on the frontispiece (“It is with great respect and admiration that I write these words to you, a man who has been a great inspiration to me for lo, these many years…”); and Tip on a Dead Crab (New York, 1984), a novel about a close-up magician in which Skinner appears as the character Vincent Michaels. Signed and inscribed “To my dear friends Herb and Phyllis…Michael Skinner alias Vincent Michaels.”
220
220. Scarne, John. Group of seven John Scarne books, two signed and inscribed. Including The Amazing World of John Scarne (1956), Scarne Explains Why You Can’t Win (n.d.), Scarne on Cards (1949), Scarne on Card Tricks (1950), Scarne on Dice (1957), Scarne’s Complete Guide to Gambling (1961), and Scarne’s Magic Tricks (1951). All 8vo and in good condition. Scarne on Cards signed and inscribed “To my friend Audley Walsh, one of the tops in racket exposes, Best wishes John Scarne.” Scarne on Card Tricks signed and inscribed. 100/200 With: Two pieces of Scarne ephemera laid in to Scarne on Cards, one an advertising premium “Think of a Number,” the other an invitation to the grand opening of the John Scarne Magic Club in Little Ferry, NJ. 221. Sharpe, Alton. Four deluxe edition Al Sharpe magic books. Including Expert Card Chicanery (1971), Expert Card Conjuring (1968), Expert Card Mysteries (1969), and Expert Hocus Pocus (1961). All in publisher’s cloth, illustrated with line drawings, and 8vo. Each book is from the first limited, numbered, deluxe edition. Good condition. 100/200
40 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
223
The Sphinx Knows 223. The Sphinx. William Hilliar, et al. V1 N1 (Mar. 1902) – V52 N1 (Mar., 1953). Complete file, bound in matching blue buckram volumes, spines stamped in gold. Very good condition. Alfredson/Daily 6420. 3,500/4,500 An outstanding file of this most prized of all magic periodicals, and arguably the most important in the history of conjuring. Chronicling virtually the entire first half of American magic in the 20th century, The Sphinx is at once a resource for collectors, performers, and historians, an endless font of information. The condition of most files — the few complete files that exist — varies widely in that issues published in the 1910s and 20s are often encountered in tattered and ragged condition due to the cheap paper on which they were printed; this file is, on the whole, in remarkably good condition and would be the pride of any discerning conjurer’s library, though a handful of issues not originally bound in have been laid in to individual volumes.
223
224. [Stage and General Magic] Group of 75 softbound publications about stage magic. Including The Berglas File No. 1 (1976), Gaetan Bloom ’86 (1986), The Command Performance (1980), Ireland’s New Card and Coin Manipulation (1935), Ireland Yearbooks (a quantity), More Magic with Electronics (1975), New Animations (1991), Newspaper Magic (1968), The Restless Spook (1943), Shampagne (1994), Studies in Mystery (1941), Topper’s Mad Mad Magic (1974), The Very Best, Yet! (1990), and many more. Bindings vary; all 4to and in generally good condition. Should be seen. 75/150 225. [Stage and Parlor Magic] Group of 17 hardbound books about stage and parlor magic. Including A Choice of Miracles (1980), The Award-Winning Rope Magic of Francis Tabary (2004), Conjurers’ Mechanical Secrets (1992), Conjurers’ Optical Secrets (1985), The Crowning Miracles (1983), Encyclopaedia of Dove Magic Vols. 1 – 4 (1968 – 75), It’s Easier Than You Think (1952; signed and inscribed by Geoffrey Buckingham), The Magic of Alan Wakeling (1993), Marconick 3 (ca. 1970), McComb’s Magic (ca. 1970), Our Mysteries (1941), Trix & Chatter (1921), and others. Sizes and bindings vary, but all in publisher’s cloth and most with jackets. High original cost. Condition generally good. 200/300
226. [Stage and Spook Show Magic] Group of 88 softbound books about stage and spook show magic. Including Gene Anderson’s Newspaper Trick (ca. 1980), Bob Read’s $100 Glass Thro’ Table (n.d.), The Encyclopedia of Dove Magic (1979), Grant’s Annual of Magic (ca. 1935), Grant’s Thirteen Mysteries (1934), Hey! That’s My Wallet! (1978), Horizons in Magic (ca. 1940), How to Haunt a House (1979), Magic of Finn Jon (1984), Micro Magic Ghost Show (ca. 1965), Off Beat Magic (1965), Six Tricks by Tenkai (n.d.), Spooks on Stage (1964), Spook Shows on Parade (1978), Tokyo Trickery (1967), and many others. Bindings vary; all 4to and in generally good condition. 100/200 227. Talisman. Jules Lenier. V1 N1 (Mar. 6, 1970) – V2 N23 (Aug. 13, 1971). Complete file. Loose issues. Good condition. Alfredson/Daily 6600. 50/100 With: West Coast Quarterly. Earl Nelson. N1 and N2. Complete file. Good condition. Alfredson/Daily 7110.
228 228. Tamariz, Juan. The Five Points in Magic. [Madrid], 1988. Publisher’s cloth, illustrated. English edition. 8vo. Good condition. Signed and inscribed by Tamariz to Herb Zarrow. 50/100
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 41
229 229. Tamariz, Juan. The Magic Way. [Madrid], 1988. Publisher’s cloth, illustrated. English edition. 8vo. Good condition. Signed and inscribed by Juan Tamariz. 50/100 230. Tamariz, Juan. Mnemonica. Seattle, 2004. Publisher’s cloth, illustrated. 4to. Light wear to jacket, otherwise good condition. Signed
and inscribed,
“To Herb, Master
for your hospitality and your friendship.
and friend.
Un
Thank
you
gran abrazo, Juan
Tamariz.” 50/100
233 233. Temple, Phil (ed). The Thurston-Dante Letter Set. N.p., 1981. Being the reproduction, in facsimile form, of a lengthy correspondence between two of the greatest magicians of the 20th century, Howard Thurston and Dante (Harry Jansen). Laid in are three full-color reproductions of Thurston lithographs. Housed in a paper-covered letter file box. Number 55 from a limited edition of 150. Light wear to case and contents, label on case taped down, but overall good condition. 100/200 234. Toole-Stott, Raymond. A Bibliography of English Conjuring 1569-1876. Derby, 1976. Two volumes in publisher’s cloth, illustrated with plates. One of a limited edition of 1030 copies, signed by the author. 8vo. Frontispiece of Vol. 2 detached, otherwise good condition. 150/250
231 231. Tamariz, Juan. Sonata. [Madrid], 1991. Publisher’s cloth, illustrated. English edition. 8vo. Light wear to jacket, otherwise good condition. Signed and inscribed warmly by Juan Tamariz to Tony Spina. 75/150 235 232. Tarbell, Harlan. The Tarbell Course in Magic Vols. 1 - 8. New York, 1953 – 2003. Publisher’s cloth with jackets, illustrated. 8vo. Good condition. 50/150 With: Burton, Steve. The Tarbell Companion. Cypress, 1994. Publisher’s wraps, illustrated. 8vo. Good condition.
42 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
235. Tucker, Tom. ESP 2000 Course. [Merrimac], 1976. Publisher’s red faux leather stamped in gold. Illustrated. 4to. Several documents relating to the Tuckers laid in, including a pledge of secrecy to be signed by the purchaser of the book. Very good condition. Signed and inscribed by Tom and Liz Tucker. 75/150
236 236. [Vernon] Fitzkee, Dariel and Fred Braue. The First California Lecture. Oakland, 1976. Blue pebbled cloth stamped in gold with jacket. Number 93 from a limited hardbound edition of 100. 8vo. Very good condition. 150/250
239 239. Vernon, Dai. Malini and His Magic. London, n.d. Publisher’s red cloth with jacket. Illustrated with photographs. 8vo. Good condition. Warmly signed and inscribed by Dai Vernon to Conrad “Connie” Bush. 75/150
237
237. Vernon, Dai (David Frederick Wingfield Verner). Group of 13 books by and about Dai Vernon and his magic. Including 36 Card Secrets, Dai Vernon: A Biography (2005), The Dai Vernon Book of Magic (first edition, n.d.), Dai Vernon European Tour 1955, Dai Vernon’s Expanded Lecture Notes (1970), Inner Secrets of Card Magic (n.d.), More Inner Secrets of Card Magic (n.d.), Further Inner Secrets of Card Magic (n.d.), Ultimate Card Secrets (n.d.), Select Secrets (1949), Symphony of the Rings (first edition), The Very Best of Dai Vernon (1993; French text), and The Vernon Touch (2006). Sizes and bindings vary. Condition generally good. 250/350 238. Vernon, Dai. Dai Vernon’s Inner Card Trilogy. Including Dai Vernon’s Inner Secrets of Card Magic, More Inner Secrets of Card Magic and Further Inner Secrets of Card Magic. All in publisher’s cloth with jackets, the first two being first editions, and the latter an uncommon Supreme Magic edition bound in cloth. All 8vo and in very good condition. 150/300
240 240. Vernon, Dai. Revelations. Pasadena, 1994. Publisher’s black leather stamped in silver. Illustrated. Number 49 from the publisher’s limited, numbered and signed deluxe edition, signed by Dai Vernon on a specially bound-in page bearing a tipped-in photograph of The Professor. 8vo. Small tears to first two leaves repaired with tape, otherwise good condition. Signed and inscribed on the half-title “To Herb Zarrow for whom I have the greatest admiration best magical wishes, Dai Vernon.” 250/350 241. [Vernon, Dai] Ganson, Lewis. Symphony of the Rings. London, ca. 1957. First edition. Black wraps stamped in gold. Illustrated with photographs. 8vo. Very good condition. Signed by Dai Vernon. 40/80
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 43
242. [Victor, Edward]. The Magic of the Hands Trilogy and The Magic of Edward Victor’s Hands. Washington, D.C., 1995. Both in brown leather stamped in gold with matching slipcases; each from the publisher’s numbered and signed deluxe edition of 50 copies. Illustrated. Very good condition. 100/200 243. Whaley, Bart. Encyclopedic Dictionary of Magic. Oakland, 1989. Publisher’s wraps, comb bound as issued. Two volumes, being number 405 of a limited, numbered edition. Illustrated with photographs. 4to. Wear at extremities, otherwise good condition. 75/150
246. [Business Cards] Collection of over 100 magicians’ business cards. Including throw-out cards and tickets, and many business cards from the best-known American sleight-of-hand magicians of the 20th century. Among those names represented are Dai Vernon, Shigeo Takagi, Ascanio, Derek Dingle (from his years in Toronto), Marvin “The Magic Silk Merchant (Marvyn Roy), Michael Skinner, Kreskin, J.B. Bobo, Charls J. Distel (on a playing card back), Mystic Craig, T. Nelson Downs (a reproduction), and many others. 1930s – 2000s. Generally good condtion. 50/100
Decorative Objects, Ephemera, and Posters
247 244 244. Artanis. Artanis Explains the Bottom Deal. This 78 RPM record album, accompanied by 12 sepia-toned photographs and a typewritten manuscript explain a method for covertly dealing the bottom card from the pack. New York, 1958. In original corrugated pictorial sleeve. Good condition. 75/150 Artanis’s given name was Joseph Sinatra. He helped spread the rumor that he was a distant relative of Frank Sinatra. 245. Blackstone, Harry. The Magic of Love. Boston, Gem Music Corp., 1939. Sheet music written for and played during the Blackstone show. A classic portrait of Blackstone graces the front cover. Lower right corner worn, otherwise good condition. Signed and inscribed by Pete and Millie Bouton, Blackstone’s brother and sister-in-law. 50/100
44 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
247. [Correspondence] Archive of correspondence from the collection of Herb Zarrow. Including letters from some of the best-informed sleight-of-hand magicians of the 20th century. Among the authors of these letters, many of which are multiple pages in length, are Ali Bongo, a cache of correspondence written to Bill Gusias by New Jersey magician Tommy Burke, Bruce Cervon, Cy Endfield, Steve Freeman, Steve Forte, Karl Fulves (a quantity, some signed), P. Howard Lyons, Joseph Sinatra (Artanis), Michael Skinner, Bob Stencel (five pages, describing the mechanics of various tricks), Bob White, and Scotty York. Drafts of letters handwritten by Zarrow are among the letters, as are a quantity of reproduction pages, among them letters written to Dai Vernon by Alex Elmsley, and others. Some early correspondence on elaborate letterheads written to Conrad “Connie” Bush. 1920s – 2000s. Condition varies, but generally good. Should be seen. 500/750
248. [Ephemera] Large accumulation of magic-related ephemera. Primarily collected by Herb Zarrow and Connie Bush, and including a wide assortment of paper memorabilia. Among the items are cigar box labels, signed holiday cards (by Ottokar Fisher, Julien Proskauer, and others), programs (including several for Harry Blackstone, Sr.), postcards, stage money, advertising brochures, Richard Himber-written sheet music, a poster-size prospectus for Will Goldston’s More Exclusive Magical Secrets, as well as pitch books, postcards, clippings, and much more. Magicians represented include John Scarne (including a small poster), Mohammed Bey, Klingsor, Mickey MacDougall, Chanin, Kio, Billy McComb, Sorcar, Bill Neff and countless others. Hundreds of individual pieces. 1920s – 2000s. Generally good condition. Should be seen. 300/400 249. Fak-Hongs, The. Two Fak-Hongs magic posters. Litho Mirabet, Valencia, ca. 1930. Both being quarter sheet (17 x 25”) color lithographs advertising Chang and The Fak Hongs, “United Magicians.” One heralds the illusion “Elle” and the other the depicts a devil and various objects and is overprinted for the company’s “Oriental Revue.” Unmounted. Good condition. 75/150 250. [Films] Group of four magic-related 16mm films. Including one labeled “1958 – Vernon Trip to England,” two CineMagic films of Fred Kaps (likely commercially marketed), and one large reel of film labeled “Magic,” the contents of which are unknown. Films have not been projected, but are in good condition. 200/300 With: Two commercially produced audio cassettes (one an interview of Vernon, the other of Fred Kaps), and a 78-rpm record of Louis Zingone’s card tricks. 248
250
251. [Gaming Tokens] Group of nine magicians’ gaming chips and tokens. Issued by Las Vegas Casinos and including three different Lance Burton $10 Tokens (Silver), Lance Burton $5 chip (signed), David Copperfield at Caesar’s Atlantic City $5 Chip, Penn & Teller Bally’s $5 chip, Rick Thomas Tropicana $5 chip, Siegfried & Roy Mirage $5 chip, and Siegfried & Roy golden token (number 16 from an unspecified edition). Good condition. 50/150 252. George, Grover. George The Supreme Master of Magic. Cleveland, Otis Lithograph Co., ca. 1926. Attractive one sheet (28 x 40”) color lithographed poster advertising Grover George’s “Triumphant American Tour” which never took place. Framed and glazed. Good condition. 200/300
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 45
253 253. [Graphics] Group of over 20 magic-themed graphics and window cards. Including window cards advertising Ted Collins, John Mulholland, Cliff Green (signed), the Salute to Magic, and graphics of learned pigs, card players and other magicthemes extracted from Punch and other periodicals, as well as advertisements for Camel Cigarette ads from the company’s “It’s Fun to be Fooled…” campaign, and other items. 1880s – 2000s. Sizes vary. Good condition. 200/300 254. Jay, Ricky. Group of 10 pieces of Ricky Jay ephemera. Including a playbill from Ricky Jay & His 52 Assistants, signed by Jay; a box of Ricky Jay’s $100 Dollar Sweets from his off-Broadway production On the Stem; a Christmas card from Jay (as curator of the Mulholland Library) to the Zarrows in original mailing cover hand-addressed by Jay; the CD box-set Ricky Jay Plays Poker; two ALS from Jay to the Zarrows, one dated May 29, 1979 in which Jay discusses a recent injury (“it will be a while before I can do the Side Steal.”) and a recent television appearance: “Wanted you to know that I performed your miracle version of “Swindle Sorts” on the Dinah Shore Show…”); as well as clippings and three ticket stubs. 1970s – 2000s. Condition varies, but generally good. 200/300 255. Jay, Ricky. Ricky Jay & His 52 Assistants. Half-sheet (20 x 28”) color lithograph depicting a portrait of Ricky Jay with imps on his shoulders. Initially produced to coincide with the debut of Jay’s award-winning off-Broadway run at the Second Stage Theatre. Ca. 1998. Framed and glazed. Good condition. 100/200
46 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
256 256. Kassner, Alois. Kassner. Illusionen. Hamburg, Adolph Friedlander, 1927. Large panel-size (28 x 74“) color lithographed poster bearing a striking portrait of German illusionist Kassner and a levitating woman floating high above him. With original snipe pasted down. Light wear to snipe, but overall good condition; linen backed. 800/1,200
257
Handmade by Jeanne Verner 257. Kolma (Michael Bornstein). Kolma’s Chinese mask, robe, costume and accessories. Comprised of an eerie and lifelike papier mâché mask handmade by Jeanne Verner for Mike Bornstein’s Chinese act. Verner, Dai Vernon’s wife, was an accomplished artist, as the detail of this mask — one of two surviving examples of her work of this kind known — shows. Verner created lifelike masks of Cardini, Sam Margules, and other New York personalities. Each mask was crafted of a surprisingly sturdy papier mâché composition, and finished with realistic features, including vibrant skin tones and, in the case of this example, real whiskers and facial hair. The Kolma mask is packed in its original padded wooden case, likely one of the reasons it has survived the decades since its creation in fine condition. Donning the mask and accompanying full-length robe, pants, tasseled hat and slippers transformed Bornstein into his performing persona, the Chinese magician Kolma. The fulllength robe is decorated with numerous embroidered patterns and sequins. The satin pants have been outfitted with a metal hook, presumably used to secure a secret parcel of items to be produced during the act. Ca. 1942. Components of the costume show wear from professional use; mask in fine condition. See front cover. 4,000/6,000
258. [Medallions, Badges, Tokens and Souvenirs] Group of over 100 magic convention medallions, badges and tokens. Issued to commemorate various American magic conventions. Including 30 Tannens Jubilee medallions bearing the portraits of famous magicians honored at the event (Harry Anderson, Paul Daniels, Lou Tannen, Tomsoni & Co, Herb Zarrow, and many others); 15 Yankee Gathering souvenirs and tokens (including some in Sterling Silver), 25 Fechter’s Finger Flicking Frolic poker chips, souvenir coins, and gift items; as well as a miscellaneous badges, pins and convention give-aways (a quantity). 1960s – 2000s. Condition generally good. Should be seen. 200/300 259. [Photographs] Group of over 60 photographs of magicians. Both candid snapshots and formal portraits, including 10 pictures in which Dai Vernon appears, as well as images of Jack Chanin (signed and inscribed), Tenkai and Okinu (signed and inscribed), Francis Carlyle (signed and inscribed warmly to Herb Zarrow), David Roth, Derek Dingle, Ray Goulet, Charlie Miller (including several with Zarrow), and many others. Most in black and white, some being later prints and reprints. Sizes vary. 1930s – 2000s. Generally good condition. 150/250
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 47
260. [Pins, Medals and Membership Cards] Collection of Herb Zarrow’s pins, membership cards, awards and badges. Including his life membership, 35 year membership and past president medal issued by Society of American Magicians, various pieces of jewelry with a magic or playing card theme (including cufflinks and pendants), a medallion and award from England’s Magic Circle, and a collection of Zarrow’s membership cards in various magic organizations, among them The Magic Castle, Magic Circle, The Invisible Lodge, “The” Magic Club, M.A.E.S., S.A.M., I.B.M., and others. 1950s – 2000s. Condition varies, but generally good. 150/250
261
261. [Plate] Porcelain plate depicting Le Tireur De Cartes (The Fortune Teller). Porcelain Gien, ca. 1890. Enameled plate shows two mountebank fortune tellers reading cards to a gathered crowd. 8 ¼” in diameter. Good condition. 50/150 262. [Plates] Set of eight playing card-themed display plates. Milan, Fornasetti, ca. 1955. From the Citta di Carte Series, the different design of each glazed plate makes use of playing cards in surrealistic scenes of the city and countryside. The cards become roads, building and bridges. 10” in diameter. All in fine condition. 600/800 263. [Plates] Three magic-themed souvenir plates. Including one issued to commemorate the centenary of the Magic Circle and depicting David Devant, J.N. Maskelyne and Joad Heteb; one titled Das Becherspiel and depicting a monochrome image of a cup and ball worker performing on the street, as issued by KK Magic Products and bearing the company’s stamp; and a commemorative plate bearing the same image as the former, but in color, and issued by the German Magic Circle. All three in good condition. 150/250 264. [Posters] Group of over 20 modern magic posters. Including posters advertising David Copperfield and the Vanishing Statue of Liberty, Cards as Weapons, Jay’s Journal of Anomalies, Le Grand David, Tannen’s 30th Jubilee, Slydini, Michael Finney, Norgil the Magician (signed by Steranko and Walter Gibson), The Tanagra (Los Angeles Conference on Magic History), The Conjuror’s Suite, René Lavand, and many others. Sizes vary. High original cost. Condition generally good. Some signed and inscribed. Should be seen. 150/250
48 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
262
265. [Premiums and Pitch Books] Group of over 25 magic pitch books and premiums. Including two early Thurston pitch books (4th and 5th editions, both in grey wraps), a complete five-volume
265
set of Thurston’s Swift & Co. premium books, The Botany Book of Magic (1940), See? (issued by Bausch & Lomb), The Magic of Paper (National Vulcanized Fibre Co., 1964), Secrets of the Great Mysteries by Oudini the Handcuff King (1909), Tricks and Illusions: Magic You can Do by Horace Goldin (1919), Houdini’s Big Little Book of Magic (1927), New Improved and Enlarged Edition of Card “Secrets” (ca. 1930, originally authored by Dai Vernon), Magic Tricks for Every Member of the Family (issued by Oakite Products, ca. 1940), and many others. 1900s – 1960s. Generally good condition. 150/250 266. [Programs] Collection of over 100 magic convention and souvenir programs. Including elaborately printed and produced programs for S.A.M. and I.B.M. conventions, The Yankee Gathering (a quantity), It’s Magic, Lance Burton, Le Grand David, The World Festival of Magic, The Jean Hugard Testimonial, numerous regional and local magic gatherings, an oversized and heavily-illustrated 1939 S.A.M. National Conference “Who’s Who” program, as well as the program from the first annual Los Angeles Conference on Magic History (of which fewer than 150 copies were issued). Sizes and bindings vary. 1920s – 2000s. Good condition. 150/250
267
267. [Statuettes] Three pewter magic-themed statuettes sculpted by Ray Bradbury. One, titled “Magical Moments,” depicts an angel toying with a set of cups and balls, another shows a pair of hands between which are falling playing cards, and the third shows a set of Cups and Balls. The largest measures 6 ½ x 4 ¼”. Each from a limited edition. Good condition. 150/300 268. [Tokens and Medals] Group of over 30 magic tokens and medals. Including S.S. Adams centenary medal (brass), J.H. Anderson (as issued by NEMCA, 2005), Lance Burton (two different $10 gaming tokens in Sterling Silver) David Cresey (a variety, in gold and aluminum), David Devant (Magic Circle Centenary, 2005), T. Nelson Downs palming coins, Le Grand David 25th Anniversary Medal (Sterling Silver), Le Grand David (oversized golden medallion, minted in 2000), Max Holden (dollar size), Milton Kort encased penny, Jay Marshall (three varieties, including one in Sterling Silver, issued in 2002), Rauscher, Thurston commemorative medal (gold), Torkova, Dai Vernon “spinning” coins in nickel and brass, and others. Sizes and composition vary. High original cost. Condition generally good. Should be seen. 300/400
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 49
272. Vernon, Dai. Group of 11 pieces of Dai Vernon ephemera. Including five postcards (two bearing photos of Vernon at the Magic Castle, one a printed invitation to a Vernon lecture presented by Stars of Magic, Inc.), two 8 x 10” photographs (one a later printing), a mailing cover bearing Vernon’s portrait, Vernon lecture notes (nine pages in manuscript form) bearing annotations likely by Herb Zarrow on several pages, a commemorative booklet printed on the anniversary of Vernon’s 100th birthday, and a ticket from a November 14, 1947 Vernon lecture at the Hotel McAlpin. 1940s – 90s. Condition generally good. Should be seen. 250/350
269 269. Vernon, Dai (David Frederick Wingfield Verner). Brochure advertising “Dale Vernon” the magician. Bi-fold quarto brochure from Vernon’s years as a society and club entertainer in New York City, the famous Hal Phyfe photo of Vernon on the front panel. Good condition. 50/100 270. Vernon, Dai (David Frederick Wingfield Verner). Two framed Dai Vernon sentiments. The first being a collage of two color portraits of Vernon; in one he performs for the King of Sweden, and in the other he stands next to a Swedish royal guard. Calligraphic text captions the images. The other is a large color portrait of Vernon in profile, issued to commemorate a Houdini séance held at the Magic Castle on June 11, 2005, the day that would have been Vernon’s 100th birthday. Both framed and glazed and in good condition. 250/350
271 271. Vernon, Dai. Group of five Dai Vernon souvenirs. Including two Vernon “spinning” coins (one in brass, the other in nickel, ca. 1976), one brass tie tack bearing Vernon’s silhouette (also issued during Vernon’s lifetime, ca. 1978), a Swiss Army Knife bearing Vernon’s silhouette and issued to commemorate his 100th birthday, and a Dai Vernon card clip as issued by Joe Porper. Condition generally good. 100/200
50 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
273. Vernon, Dai. Group of 20 photographs of Dai Vernon. Most being candid snapshots of Vernon at the Zarrow home, at the Magic Castle, and lecturing to groups of magicians. Vernon performs with cups and balls, cards and coins in several images; two of them show him with Walter Scott, the “Phantom of the Card Table.” Black and white and color images. Sizes vary. 1960s – 80s. Condition generally good. 150/250
Handmade by Dai Vernon 274. Vernon, Dai. Negative Stripper Deck handmade by Dai Vernon. Specially prepared by Vernon and sent to Herb Zarrow as a gift, the four aces can be “stripped” (pulled) out of this red Hoyle shellback deck after an honest shuffle — but only by someone who has developed the required “knack.” Accompanying the deck is a detailed ALS from Vernon to Herb Zarrow on Academy of Magical Arts notepaper describing not only the subtle working of the deck (“At the first few trials you’ll probably have no success whatsoever but with patience and different pressures you’ll suddenly succeed.”), but how badly it fooled fellow magicians at the Magic Castle. Vernon writes that Joe Berg, the noted magic dealer, “…made me wash my hands the last time. He thinks there is some chemical on the edges of the aces that clings to something put on the fingers.” Vernon also writes and an “Italian fellow” used “work” of this nature to win some $70,000 in Las Vegas, and that this same gambler is “…one of the best bottom dealers I’ve ever seen.” Letter folded to fit the card box; deck in very good condition. Unique. 300/400 Also known as “Bathroom Strippers,” as the “work” in these cards was traditionally put in by gamblers using broken shards of glass in a bathroom.
276
274 275 275. Vernon, Dai. One-page ALS from Dai Vernon to Herb Zarrow. An undated letter, most likely from Vernon’s early years at The Magic Castle, in the mid-1960s. Vernon writes, “Castle is busier than ever and things are humming. The new policy is a change of magis every two weeks – rotation of Charlie Miller, Leo Behnke, Larry Jennings and yours truly.” Vernon also mentioned Jay Ose, an upcoming stage show (“hope it goes well.”), Bill Gusias and Ed Balducci. Signed “Sincerely Dai.” On scrap paper measuring 5 ½ x 8 ½”. Folded from mailing and with wear at folds and extremities; fair condition. 150/250
FDR Cut by Vernon 276. Vernon, Dai. Silhouette of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, cut by Dai Vernon. Colorado Springs, 1932. On a mount measuring 4 ¼ x 6”. One light crease runs through the center of mount and image, otherwise good condition. Signed by Vernon. 1,500/2,500 277. Wind-Up “Tricksie” Magician Dog toy. Japanese, ca. 1950. Tuxedo-clad dog causes an egg to change into a small chicken by raising and lowering a top hat over it, and barking twice. Tin, fabric and plastic components. 8 ½” high. Light wear, but overall good, working condition. 100/200
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 51
Paul Fox: Master of Mystery
The name Paul Fox is synonymous with all that is good in magic: mystery, elegance, and inventiveness. Born Paul Fuchs on May 19, 1898, in Chillicothe, Ohio, he adopted the stage name Paul Fox in his early twenties. He was inspired initially by the then-classic texts of magic, and his hometown heroes – Phil Hunter, known as the Buckeye Wizard, and his brother, Arts and Crafts artist Dard Hunter. But the young Paul Fox’s artistic prowess really developed under the tutelage of his father, a master jeweler, and the spell of another Ohio resident and prominent magician, Karl Germain. Fox was a prodigy of sorts, applying his keen eye for design and his inventive mind to streamline classic effects, so that they could be performed with deceptive simplicity. Fox was the bridge between the old world and new. He reengineered the magic in works by Professor Hoffmann and Edwin Sachs for modern audiences, and ushered in works by the early 20th century modern masters such as Al Baker and Dai Vernon, often improving them in the process. His peers readily welcomed him in 1936 into their exclusive coterie: the Academy of the Art of Magic. Over the years many magicians turned to Fox for advice, including S.S. Henry, Grover George, Ade Duval, Walter Baker, Harlan Tarbell, Frakson, Cardini, Paul Rosini, Cantu, and Charlie Miller. But his closest confidants were Al Baker, Faucett Ross, and Dai Vernon. It was Vernon with whom, artistically, he was most aligned, both recognizing Vernon’s genius and contributing to it. A master of both large and small apparatus, Fox worked with Vernon in developing his storied Harlequin Act, and Vernon added many of Fox’s innovations to his general repertoire. As an artist and craftsman, Fox was influenced by the Arts and
52 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
Crafts movement and, like many of those innovators, became intrigued with Art Deco design. His use of materials like lucite and metal, artfully assembled or turned, were far removed from the painted boxes and tubes employed by his contemporaries. His celebrated Candy Bowl, for example, and his iconic design for the Cups and Balls represent a perfect match of form and function. A performer of the highest rank, Fox’s career in vaudeville was cut short when he contracted tuberculosis in 1927. Eventually, he was able to resume performing to great acclaim, but in the smaller venues of Colorado Springs and the surrounding area, his movements and activities restricted by his medical condition. He particularly enjoyed what he considered his patriotic duty, to perform regularly for servicemen stationed at Fort Carson. He passed away on December 10, 1976, leaving his devoted wife, Henrietta, and accomplished daughter, Margaret Grace. The apparatus, books, photographs and ephemera in this catalog represent many facets of his life and career – performer, inventor, craftsman, and confidant. They are offered for sale by his daughter with the knowledge that now, more than ever, there is an audience that respects her father’s work, and appreciates the technical and artistic innovations of the person Dai Vernon described as the master mind of magic. -David Ben Toronto September 2010
From the Collection of Paul Fox
278
278. Alexander, C.A. The Life and Mysteries of the Celebrated Dr. “Q”. Los Angeles, 1921. Red cloth stamped in gold. 8vo. Very good condition. Signed and inscribed “Yours for greater magical success, California Alexander.” 100/150
280 280. Baker, Al. Al Baker’s Book. New York, 1933. Publisher’s wraps, illustrated. 8vo. Good condition. Signed and inscribed “To a real friend and pal, Paul Fuchs, Al Baker, June 1-33.” 100/200 With: A souvenir program from the tribute commemorating Al Baker’s Golden Wedding Anniversary and his 50 Years in Magic held in New York at the Barbizon Plaza Theatre on March 22, 1948. Bound in gold pictorial wraps.
279 279. The Atom. Norwood, John Snyder, Jr., ca. 1936. A small sheet of glass is placed into a sturdy wooden framework with hinged lid and brass hardware. A steel ball passes through the hole in the frame and apparently the solid glass, too. The frame is opened and the glass is seen unharmed. Later versions of this trick were manufactured by Thayer and Davenports. In a handsome fitted and felt-line wooden carrying case for the ball and frame, as issued. Frame measures 4 ¼ x 6 ¼”. With original instructions. Very good condition. Uncommon. 350/550 Snyder manufactured perhaps less than 50 of these units, as was his practice with most of the larger apparatus he conceived and constructed.
281
281. Baker, Al. Mental Magic. Minneapolis, 1949. First edition. Red cloth stamped in gold with dust jacket. Illustrated. Small 8vo. Good condition. Signed and inscribed “Dec. 31-49 Every good wish to my real friend Paul Fox. May 1950 be the best ever to you, Sincerely, Al Baker. Page 3 Should be right hand.” 150/300
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 53
283
282
284
Thanks for Your Help 282. Cardini (Richard Valentine Pitchford). Portrait of Cardini signed and inscribed to Paul Fox. Chicago, Bloom Studio, 1942. Cardini stands in the shadows, glancing at a deck of cards in his gloved hands. 8 x 10”. Very good condition. The verso bears the inscription, “To my friend “Paul” with many thanks for the tips which I shall use in the act. Sincerely “Dick” Cardini Jan. 3rd 1942.” 250/350 Paul Fox was one of a select few magicians both admired by and considered a peer of Cardini. He was one of even fewer magicians whose advice Cardini used to improve and update the peerless, trend-setting act, that kept him at the top of the showbiz ladder and make his the standard by which all others would be judged. 283. Cardini (Richard Valentine Pitchford). Portrait of the Cardinis signed and inscribed to Paul Fox. Chicago, Maurice Seymour, ca. 1943. The classic portrait of Cardini and Swan in costume, he with two fans of cards, she holding two aces. 8 x 10”. Small tear in left border not affecting images, otherwise good condition. Signed and inscribed, “To our friend [sic] Paul and Henrietta with remembrances from Swan & Dick Jan 3rd 1943.” 200/300
54 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
285 284. Cardini (Richard Valentine Pitchford). Cardini souvenir “throw out”-type card. N.p., ca. 1940. Souvenir card bearing a ½ length portrait of Cardini in tie, tails, top hat and monocole. Printed in black on a golden background. 2 ½ x 3 ½. One corner creased, otherwise good condition. 100/200 285. Clingo Billiard Balls. Los Angeles, F.G. Thayer, Ca. 1925. Set of three white billiard balls and matching shell for the classic manipulative trick. Expertly turned by Thayer, who was best known for his turned wooden products, and finished with a concentrically scored pattern approximating the appearance of a golf ball, but more importantly allowing the performer a surer grip. Accompanied by a Clingo Silk to Ball gimmick and matching solid ball, ¼” larger than the multiplying Clingo set. Very good condition. Uncommon. 700/900 With: A cache of well worn multiplying golf balls with metal shells (likely Ireland), the knob and head of a faux golf club and other related props for what was likely a golf-themed routine in Fox’s act.
287
286
286. [Correspondence] Important archive of correspondence from the files of Paul Fox. Primarily written in the 1930s and 40s, when Fox was a member of magic’s “inner circle,” and penned to him by many of the most famous magicians of the era, this archive includes missives that detail the working of and patter for various tricks, as well as gossip about magicians and their doings, as well as strictly informational details about various tricks sold by magic dealers. Among the writers are Faucett Ross, S. Leo Horowitz, Harlan Tarbell, Dr. Carroll Ritchey, Ralph Read, Russ Walsh, Adolph Boldt, Sam Margules, Gene Gordon, Bobo, Al Saal, Harry Cecil, Oscar S. Teale, Stewart Judah, and many others. Letters range in length from short notes to multiple pages. Included are several letters originally written to Faucett Ross, one by Eddie McGlaughlin. One of Ross’s letters to Fox described in detail a presentation for the Malini Egg Bag, apparently learned from Charlie Miller, who learned it directly from Malini. Ross writes, in part, “Charles claims that most of Malini’s stuff is comparatively bold, but this is covered by his wonderful misdirection.” Generally good condition. Should be seen. 500/750
Appraised by Houdini 287. Dean, Henry. The Whole Art of Legerdemain or Hocus Pocus In Perfection…. London, ca. 1760. Contemporary leather, illustrated with woodcuts throughout the text. 12mo. Binding cracked and chipped, covers fragile; contemporary marginal notes throughout and on FFEP, frontispiece lacking; fair condition. Toole-Stott 203. Scarce. 500/750 Accompanying the book is a copy of a letter from Houdini to Paul Fox in which the ever-boastful Houdini, “My Dear Mr. Fuchs:- “The Whole Art of Legerdemain or hocus Pocus in Perfection” may be worth from $5. to $25. It all depends on the condition, state and binding. The real valuable edition is the number one, published in 1631, I have two copies of the 1635 edition, but the number one is the very scarce one and worth from $100. to $300. Very truly yours, Houdini.”
288 288. Devant, David. Woes of a Wizard. London, 1903. Yellow pictorial wraps. 8vo. Backstrip perished and extremities worn; fair condition. 50/100
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 55
290
291
289
12
292
289. [Ephemera] Collection of magic-related ephemera. From the files of Paul Fox, and including brochures, programs, handbills, clipping and advertisements primarily from the 1930s and 40s. Included are colorful brochures for magicians who played important roles in Fox’s tutelage as a magician, among them Karl German, and S.S. Henry, as well as other well-known magicians of the day that Fox encountered as a young man both growing up in Ohio and while living in Chicago and Colorado. Other performers represented include Harry Blackstone, Sr. (programs and souvenir booklet), McDonald Birch, Hardeen (brother of Houdini), Leslie Guest, J.B. Bobo, Mel-Roy, Al Saal, and Luis Zingone. Also included are flyers and pictorial advertisements for various magic shops and dealers, including L.L. Ireland, Abbott’s Magic Co., Thayer, Max Holden and the Chicago Magic Company. Some items bear signatures or inscriptions to Fox. Over 150 pieces. Condition generally good. Should be seen. 300/400 290. Evans, Henry Ridgley. The History of Conjuring and Magic. Kenton, 1928. Black pebbled cloth stamped in gold. Colored frontispiece. 8vo. Very good condition. Nice copy. 150/250
56 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
292
291. Evans, Henry Ridgley. Magic and its Professors. New York, 1902. Publisher’s pictorial cloth, illustrated. 8vo. Some toning to spine, but overall very good condition. 100/200 292. Fischer, Ottokar. Das Wunderbuch Der Zauberkunst (Illustrated Magic). Stuttgart, 1929. First edition. Blue cloth stamped in orange with elaborate full-color lithograph laid down on front board, as issued; with the uncommonly encountered color dust jacket. Color frontispiece depicts Adelaide and Leon Herrmann. Illustrated with photographs. 4to. Chips and wear at extremities of jacket, but overall very good condition. Nice copy. 250/350 This is the (German) edition of what was later translated and published in America as Illustrated Magic. This edition is far more elaborate, detailed, contains some different illustrations from, and is of a much higher quality than the American edition.
294
293 293. Fox, Paul (Paul Fuchs). Original artwork and silhouettes by Paul Fox. Including a pencil sketch of an unproduced brochure design by Fox that depicts his portrait in profile; behind his face is the profile of Mephistopheles. Facing the portraits is a rabbit springing from a hat. Lettering in Fox’s hand outlines text that includes the words, “Paul Fox/The/Master/Magician/ Presenting The Night/Of Entertainment And/Modern/ Mystery.” An unfinished double silhouette, including the profiles and rabbits, similar to the pencil sketch design, accompanies it. Ca. 1933. Light wear to both objects, but overall good condition. 300/500
295 (detail) 295. Fox, Paul. Original pencil sketch for Paul Fox’s Spirit Paintings. Three explanatory diagrams accompanied by text which, together, outline the working and construction of Paul Fox’s version of this famous P.T. Selbit effect of developing pictures on blank canvases. Fox’s design allowed the effect, traditionally performed on large stages, to be worked in closequarters. 18 x 15 ¼”. One small tear at central fold; light wear at extremities and paper rippled, but overall good condition. 400/600
294. Fox, Paul. Six studio photographs of magician Paul Fox. Colorado Springs, Wagner-Fults Studio, ca. 1930. Each image shows Fox in a different pose, including a bust portrait, and while performing with slates, thimbles, cards, the Miser’s Dream, and Al Baker’s Glass of Water from Bag production. 8 x 10”. Fine condition. 100/200
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 57
299 296. Fox, Paul. Archive of Paul Fox ephemera and photographs. Including postcard-size portraits, an image of Fox performing a blindfold drive, early handbills for Fox performances, his membership certificate in the mile-high magic club of Denver, newspaper clippings advertising Fox performances, a photograph of Fox playing the banjo (Fox studied banjo with Eddie Peabody, but eventually sold his instrument to Cardini), photographs of his trademark, a brochure for the Chicago School of Engraving at which Fox was an instructor, one early pencil sketch in Fox’s hand, sketches of various monograms he would engrave, and much more. 1910s – 40s. Condition varies, but generally good. A unique archive of personal material related to this important American magician. Should be seen. 250/350 297. Fox, Paul. Archive of Paul Fox stationery. Designed by Paul Fox at various stages throughout his career, and including examples from his time in Ohio, as well as examples designed for his father, jeweler O.J. Fuchs. Including seven different business cards and five different letterheads. Fine condition. 100/200 298. Fox, Paul. Group of unfinished tricks and gimmicks manufactured by Paul Fox. A great quantity of magic apparatus manufactured for Paul Fox, including many unfinished and unproduced effects. Including wooden cigars for a Leipzig cigar
58 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
routine, giant wooden spools and aluminum canisters for an unknown trick, a hardwood rapping hand, quantities of thread and woven sash cord, plates for a Paul Fox Confetti Plate trick, a gimmick for the Paul Fox Beer Trick, discs for the Paul Fox Cocktail Shaker, parts for mechanical Diminishing Cards, an unfinished set of Paul Fox Chinese Sticks, a quantity of silk handkerchiefs, three mahogany picture frames (possibly made by Thayer), as well as parts and pieces for the manufacture of Floating Light Bulbs, Ball & Tube tricks, and much more. Several items contained in boxes bearing Fox’s handwriting. Condition varies, but generally very good. Should be seen. 150/250 299. Germain, Karl (Charles Mattemuller). Bust portrait of Karl Germain, signed and inscribed. Cleveland, Rynald H. Krumhar, ca. 1910. Striking sepia toned bust portrait of the famous stage magician in boudoir card format, on a mount measuring 6 ¾ x 10 ¾”. Previously unpublished. Framed and glazed. Frame and backing worn, but overall good condition. Signed and inscribed “Yours sincerely K. Germain.” 700/900 Germain was one of Paul Fox’s early mentors and inspirations; this portrait hung in Fox’s home.
300
300 300. Germain, Karl. Five-page ALS from Karl Germain to Paul Fuchs (Fox). On Stratford Hotel (Chicago) stationery and dated August 6, 1916. Germain was an idol of Fuchs’, and an early model for the young magician. At the time this letter was written, Fuchs was an amateur magician living in Chillicothe, Ohio. Germain’s letter thanks him for the role he played in a large piece of newspaper publicity garnered by Germain while playing Chillicothe. Germain goes on to advise the young magician, “I trust you have survived my … performance and that you are not taking my advice on magic so seriously to heart as to kill your joy as an amateur in our gentle art. It’s a great diversion, magic, and subtle and intricate enough to be a fit subject for the greatest minds to dabble in.” Interestingly, Germain goes on to ask Fuchs, an amateur, for input on his own act: “If you find time and inclination I should be very glad indeed to have any suggestions you may be able to offer on my program or style. The franker they are the more I shall appreciate them.” With original mailing cover, and accompanied by the clipped interview from Paul Fox’s personal files. Original fold lines, otherwise very good condition. Signed “Yours cordially, Karl Germain.” 700/900 301. Goldston, Will. Further Exclusive Magical Secrets. London, [1922]. Pebbled maroon leather stamped in gold. With locking mechanism incorporated into the binding, as issued. Illustrated. Number 61 of an unstated limited, deluxe edition. Inscription to Paul Fox on the verso of the ffep and light minor wear at extremities, else fine condition. Nice copy. 300/400 Goldston used a poor quality leather (reportedly Ostrich hide) for the binding of his famous locked books, making the outstanding condition of this example all the more uncommon.
301
302 302. Goldston, Will. Great Magicians’ Tricks. London, [1931]. Maroon cloth stamped in gold. Portrait frontispiece, illustrated. Number 353 from an unstated limited edition. 4to. Minor wear at extremities, but overall fine condition. Nice copy. 200/300 303. Hilliard, J.N. Greater Magic. Minneapolis, 1938. First edition. Publisher’s cloth, illustrated. Large 8vo. Lacks dust jacket, otherwise good condition. Signed and inscribed “To Paul Fox with all good wishes, Magically Yours, Jean Hugard, Jan. 27, 1939, N.Y.C.” 150/250
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 59
306
307 304. Hoffmann, Professor. Modern Magic and More Magic. Two early American editions in pictorial cloth, copiously illustrated and 8vo. Both bear the rubber stamp of Boston magic dealer W.D. Leroy on their title pages. Both well used and in fair to poor condition. 75/150 305. Horowitz, S. Leo and Jacob Daley. Aces High. [New York], 1947. Wraps. Illustrated with photographs. 8vo. With original mailing envelope. Signed and inscribed by the authors: “To Paul Fox a magical artist par excellence [sic] and who has gotten up some of the finest effects and methods in magic. My compliments and sincerest best wishes S. Leo Horowitz, Mohammed Bey” and “To Paul Fox, The finest magical mind and the creator of beautiful effects and apparatus, With kindest regards, Jack Daley.” 100/200 306. Houdini. Program for Houdini’s appearance at the Shubert Theatre, Cincinnati. Houdini presents a three-part show of magic, escapes and spiritualism exposes. Program dates to the week of September 20, 1925. Light wear at extremities; good condition. 150/250
60 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
308 307. Houdini, Harry. Bust portrait of Houdini, signed and inscribed. Handsome portrait of an older Houdini in coat and tie. New York, ca. 1924. 8 x 10”. Museum mounted with archival materials; framed and glazed. Fine condition. Boldly signed and Paul Fox, “To Paul Fuchs Best Wishes Houdini “my brain is the key that sets me free.” 10/8/25.” 1,200/1,800 Seldom are signed and inscribed Houdini portraits encountered in such fine condition; it is even less frequent that Houdini portraits signed and inscribed to prominent magicians are offered for sale. inscribed by
Houdini
to
308. Hugard, Jean and Frederick Braue. Expert Card Technique. Minneapolis, 1940. First edition. Blue cloth stamped in silver with jacket. Illustrated. 8vo. Very good condition. Signed and inscribed “To Paul Fox with great esteem & profound admiration for a true artist – whose very touch adds charm and brilliance to the art of magic. Jacob Daley, M.D. 9/23/44.” 150/250 Daley was one of the primary contributors to this classic book.
309. Hunter, Phil. Group of Phil Hunter, The Buckeye Wizard, ephemera. Including handbills and brochures, one being an elaborate multi-page folder designed in the arts and crafts style by the magician’s brother and sometime assistant, Dard Hunter, who would go on to be associated with Elbert Hubbard and an authority on paper making with a worldwide reputation. Good condition. 75/150 Paul Fox met the Hunters in his hometown of Chillicothe, Ohio, where they settled. After Phil Hunter’s death from tuberculosis at an early age, Fox purchased his library and apparatus. 310. [International Brotherhood of Magicians] Group of 60 snapshots of an early International Brotherhood of Magicians convention. Staged in Kenton, Ohio, these events were the first magic conventions ever organized. Among the luminaries in these pictures are Blackstone (who appears prominently in dozens of images), Tarbell, Durbin, Dorny, Gene Gordon and Len Vintus (co-founders of the organization), and dozens more. Ca. 1928. Curled from age, but overall good condition. 100/200
313. [Magic Books] Group of over 30 softbound books about magic tricks and magicians. From the library of Paul Fox, some with Fox’s name penciled in, and others with notations by their previous owners. Including Farelli’s Card Magic Vols. 1 and 2 by Victor Farelli (1933), Here’s New Magic by Joe Berg (1937, signed and inscribed to Paul Fox), Learn Magic by Henry Hay 1975), Magic for the Few by Lance Charles (1935), Match-Ic by Martin Gardner (1935), Modern Hand Shadows by Max Holden (1935, signed and inscribed), The Nikola Card System by Louis Nikola (1927), Page Wright’s Notebook by T. Page Wright (1935), Sealed Mysteries by Burling Hull (1911), Secrets of Magic by Will Goldston (1903), The Secrets of Karl Germain and Germain the Wizard by Stuart Cramer (1962 and 1966), Tricks in Magic Vols. I and III by Burlingame (1895 and 1898, both lacking rear wraps), and others. Most in wraps, 8vo and in good condition. 150/250
314. Maskelyne, Nevil and David Devant. Our Magic. New York, 1911. First American edition. Blue cloth stamped in gold and white. Illustrated with photographs. 8vo. Very good condition. Nice copy. 100/200
311 311. Jay, Ricky. Letter of introduction to Paul Fox. Written by Dai Vernon in blue ink on the reverse of his New York Card Expert his business card, the note states, “Dear Paul – I feel sure you’ll relish having a chat with Ricky Jay. He is the grandson of the late Max Katz and extremely clever. Fondest wishes to you and Henrietta. DV.” Ca. 1970. Good condition. 100/200 312. [Magic Books] Group of ten magic books from the collection of Paul Fox. Including The Book Without a Name by Annemann (1931), Dunninger’s Secrets by Dunninger (1974), Houdini His Life Story by Harold Kellock (1928), Magic by Hoyam by William Mayoh (1949, signed and inscribed), Mathemagic by R.V. Heath (1933), Modern Magic Manual by Jean Hugard (1939), This is Magic by Will Dexter (1958), Tricks and Illusions by Will Goldston (n.d., sixth edition), Trix and Chatter by Dorny (1921), and The Wizards Annual 1914 (1914). All 8vo and in good condition. 75/150
315 315. Miller, Charlie (Charles Earle Miller). Portrait of Charlie Miller signed and inscribed to Paul Fox. N.p., ca. 1970. A halflength portrait of Miller performing the Al Baker Rice Bowls. 8 x 10”. Very good condition. Signed and inscribed, “To Paul with all of my very best Charlie Miller.” 100/200
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 61
316. Mysto Magic Catalog. New Haven, 1911. Pictorial wraps in two colors. Illustrated, including color plates. 8vo. Chips at head and foot of spine and wraps loose, but overall good condition. 100/200 317. Nixon, Doc (William J. Nixon). Important archive of five letters from Doc Nixon to Paul Fox. Primarily discussing the construction of and routine for the Nixon Checker Cabinet, and including a six-page set of typed instructions by Nixon describing how to manufacture and perform the Checker Cabinet trick. Four are page-long TLS and one ALS; accompanied by a signed New Year’s card from Nixon to Fox. 1933 – 37. Good condition. 200/300
318
Owned and Used by Paul Fox 318. Paul Fox’s Billiard Balls. Set of eight aluminum billiard balls for the classic manipulation feat. In a fitted case with eight compartments. Accompanied by two cloth ball holders, three shells (two unfinished in brass, one in aluminum and partially studded with rhinestones), one unfinished silk to ball gimmick of spun brass, four unfinished wooden balls, and two extra balls (one partially studded with rhinestones). Good condition. 300/400 319. Paul Fox’s Cake in the Hat pans. American, ca. 1935. Two nickel-plated brass pans gimmicked for the production of a cake ostensibly baked by magic in a spectator’s borrowed hat. The larger measures 5 ¾” in diameter, the smaller 4 ¾”. Fox used both of these pans in his performances; the size of the cake baked varied according to the size of the hat he would borrow, hence his use of two different gimmicked pans. Accompanied by the baking tins used by Fox’s wife to bake the cakes he produced from the pans. Very good condition. 300/500 Al Baker made his reputation with the Cake in the Hat trick, and used the pan designed by Fox for his performances.
319
320. Paul Fox’s Candy Bowl. Colorado Springs, Paul Fox, ca. 1935. The magician fills a chrome dish with confetti, which later transforms into a live rabbit or any other object. This is Fox’s version of the traditional Bran Vase trick popularized by Victorian-era magicians, and the bowl he personally performed with. Mouth of bowl measures 5 ¾” in diameter. Fine condition. 600/700 320
62 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
321. Paul Fox’s Chinese Sticks. American, ca. 1935. Apparatus for the classic short/long comedy effect comprised of two bamboo sticks threaded with cords. Used professionally by Fox and possibly manufactured by him. Sticks measure 11” long and 1 ¼” in diameter. Paint and finish significantly worn and chipped. Fair condition. 300/400 322. Group of ten Cigarette tricks and gimmicks used by Paul Fox. American, ca. 1930. Including various metal “tanks” (one unfinished), reproducers, droppers and a specially prepared matchbox that secretly delivers a cigarette into the magician’s hand. In a small paper box bearing a label in Fox’s hand describing the contents. Used but good condition. 150/250 Fox pioneered many of the techniques of cigarette manipulation used by other performers, and featured cigarette tricks in his professional engagements. For a time, he billed himself as “The Man with the Cigarettes.”
321
323. Paul Fox’s Coin Pail. American, ca. 1940. Heavy brass pail used by Fox in his performance of the Miser’s Dream. 7” tall and 7” diameter at its opening. Accompanied by two coin droppers. Good condition. 300/400 This pail lacks handles; interestingly, Fox manufactured a coin pail with handles specifically designed to aid performers with the Miser’s Dream effect.
323
324. Paul Fox’s Confetti Cup. American, ca. 1925. The magician fills this cup with water or tea. When the contents of the cup are tossed toward the audience, the liquid has transformed into confetti. Mouth of cup measures 3 ½” in diameter. Very good condition. 75/150 325. Paul Fox Cups. Phoenix, Danny Dew, ca. 1960. Set of three chrome plated beaded cups from Fox’s personal collection, each standing 2 7/8” high, with an opening 2 ¾” in diameter. Very good condition. 400/600
325
326. Paul Fox’s Egg Bag. American, ca. 1930. Specially constructed red cloth bag trimmed with red satin and two imitation eggs (one painted, the other unfinished). Bag measures 8 ¼ x 7 ½”. Five unobtrusive holes in fabric of bag not affecting its working, otherwise good condition. 100/200
326
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 63
327. Four magic props used by Paul Fox. Including a Donald Holmes-manufactured Mirror Glass, Spirit Change Bag (P&L), a Vanishing Wand (shell method, with silver tips; likely P&L), and a German Vanishing Cane. 1920s – 30s. Very good condition. 150/300 328. Paul Fox’s Magic Wand. American, ca. 1930. Handsome wooden wand finished in black with white tips, used by Paul Fox in his performances. 14” long. One small chip to white tip, otherwise good condition. 150/250
328
329. Paul Fox’s Miracle Gimmicks. Colorado Springs, Paul Fox, 1947. A pair of easily concealed gimmicks which allow the magician to apparently read the minds of several spectators who are each thinking of cards from packets of cards they hold. Included is one gimmick for poker-size cards and another for jumbo cards. Good condition. 50/150 330. Paul Fox’s Needle Swallowing apparatus. American, ca. 1930. Packages of gimmicked, threaded and unprepared needles for the classic feat popularized by Houdini in which the magician swallows loose needles and a length of thread, then regurgitates both, the needles now threaded on the strand of silk. Two gimmicked packs of needles finely made (possibly by a jeweler or Fox’s father); a large quantity of loose and threaded needles also included. In a paper board box bearing a gummed label with Fox’s handwriting identifying its contents. Good condition. 50/150 331. Paul Fox Paper Tear. Colorado Spring, Paul Fox, ca. 1940. A strip of paper decorated with large characters in four colors is torn into pieces and then restored by the magician. Including a quantity of papers bearing the cleverly designed and printed characters which, upon very close examination, spell the name “FOX” in capital letters. Each sheet measures 7 x 26”. Light wear at extremities, but good condition. 50/150 With: A butterfly paper tear designed by Fox for his friend Dai Vernon. Vernon used these Fox-designed papers in his famous Harlequin Act. The Fox and Vernon paper tears were printed on a thin opaque paper also used to print bibles. 332. Paul Fox’s Passe Passe Cigarettes. Colorado Springs, Paul Fox, ca. 1940. The magician causes a package of Camel cigarettes to pass from one chrome metal tube into another and back again, ad infinitum. Tubes measure 3 ¾” high. Including one extra tube. Very good condition. 75/150
64 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
329
330
332
333. Paul Fox’s Pocket Tricks and Gimmicks. Including items manufactured for and used by Fox, as well as commercially marketed tricks. Including Thumb and Finger Tips (a quantity), a Sixth Finger, a Paul Fox Dye Tube (unfinished), various dice, tops, thread, pulls, gimmicked and palming coins, a pocket writing device (ala Germain’s Gem effect), Rattle Bars, and supplies for a Card in Pocketbook effect similar to the Al Baker/ Paul Rosini version. Condition varies, but generally good. Should be seen. 100/200 334
334. Paul Fox’s Rapping Hand. American, ca. 1925. A wooden hand with red velvet lace-trimmed cuff raps out answers to the magician’s questions or the questions of his spectators though the magician does not approach the hand. Used by Fox in his professional engagements. 7 ¾” long. Good condition. 400/500 Though similar in appearance to the popular Thayer Rapping Hands, Fox’s did not require a specially constructed board to cause it to move and rap. 335. Paul Fox’s Rice Bowls. Pair of antique Asian cloisonné spun brass bowls featuring chrysanthemums and peonies, and used by Paul Fox for the effect in which a quantity of rice first doubles and then changes into water. Bowls measure 4 ½” in diameter at the mouth. Gimmick lacking, but easily replaced. Very good condition. 200/250
335
336. Paul Fox’s Rising Cards. Colorado, Paul Fox, ca. 1945. Lucite houlette and gimmicks (including what is presumably an early prototype made from a playing card and strung with black thread), to cause cards selected from the pack to mysteriously rise from it on the magician’s command. Hallmarked. Good condition. 150/300 336 337. Paul Fox’s Spirit Slates. American, ca. 1930. Including one small set of flap spirit slates (surfaces measuring 4 x 6”) for the appearance of spirit messages, two small additional (Al Bakertype) slates with flaps in need of refinishing, and one large flap slate (lacking its mate, but including the flap) bearing the message “The Prayer of the Seeker” written in Fox’s hand, in chalk, on one side. The slates were a perennial in Fox’s performances. Good condition. 100/200
337
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 65
338
340 339 338. Paul Fox’s Manipulation Thimbles. Set of seven sturdy metal thimbles for one of Paul Fox’s favorite and best-known routines: the multiplication of thimbles in his bare hands. Accompanied by wooden stands used by Fox when decorating the thimbles with rhinestones, and three heavy metal knurled thimbles, possibly made by Lloyd. Good condition. 200/400
340. Paul Fox’s Vanishing Glass. Cleverly designed chromeplated pitcher which facilitates the steal of a glass full of water from a paper tube. After stealing the glass, the paper is crushed to show that the glass has vanished. Similar to Tannen’s Crash Glass Vanish. Lacking original tumbler. Pitcher stands 5 ¾” high. Fine condition. 150/250
339. Paul Fox’s Tuxedo. J.L. Taylor & Co., Chicago, ca. 1928. Three-piece wool tuxedo worn by Paul Fox, and bearing his initials embroidered on the breast pocket. With extra pockets subtly incorporated into both pant legs, as well as a small ring attached to the rear of the vest. Accompanied by two sets of Fox’s spats, one white glove, his pipe, a small leather bag used to transport a rabbit to his performances, and an early portrait of Fox wearing possibly the same tuxedo offered here. Very good condition. 300/500
341. [Photographs] Group of over 30 photographs from the collection of Paul Fox. Some signed and inscribed to Fox, and including 8 x 10” portraits of Birch, Johnny Platt, Ade Duval, Tampa (Raymond Sugden), Carl Rosini, Dorny, and Al Saal, and real-photo postcards and candid images of T. Nelson Downs (two), Jack Gwynne, S.S. Henry, various Okito-made props owned by Victor D. Barbour, Leslie Guest and Danny Dew. 1920s – 50s. Good condition. 250/350
66 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
342. Powell, Frederick Eugene. F.E. Powell ALS and signed and inscribed program. Two-page ALS on Powell’s elaborate pictorial letterhead dated May 18th, 1930 and addressed to Paul Fuchs (Fox), and discussing the New Haven Magic Society and John Petrie. The testimonial program is signed by 13 Chicago magicians who attended, among them Dorny, Joe Berg, Russ Walsh, and John Platt, and signed and inscribed “To Friend Paul Fuchs with many good wishes, Frederick Eugene Powell.” Slight splits at folds of ALS, program’s center signature loose, otherwise good condition. 75/150 343. Robert-Houdin, Jean Eugene. Memoirs of Robert-Houdin. Philadelphia, 1859. Brown embossed cloth, spine stamped in gold. 8vo. Extremities rubbed, rear corners bumped, and light foxing throughout, but contents sound. Similar to Toole-Stott 1165. 150/300
342
344. Robinson, William E. Spirit Slate Writing and Kindred Phenomena. New York, 1898. Red cloth stamped in gold and black. Illustrated. 8vo. One corner lightly bumped, otherwise very good condition. Nice copy. 150/250 345. [S.A.M.] Society of American Magicians 2nd Annual National Conference program. Chicago, 1930. Green pictorial wraps. 8vo. Good condition. Signed and inscribed to Paul Fox by over 45 magicians who attended the event, including Howard Thurston, Harlan Tarbell, Axel Hellstrom, Eugene Laurant, John Mulholland, Max Holden, Joseffy, Betty Jane Kolar, Joe Berg, Oswald Rae, and many more. 100/150
344
346. Thurston, Howard. Group of six pieces of Thurston ephemera. Including one theatre program from the Lyceum in Columbus, Ohio; two folio-size advertising flyers on newsprint; an illustrated postcard; a small bi-fold handbill for an appearance at the Schubert Colonial, Cleveland; and an 8 x 10” photograph of Thurston and McDonald Birch at an early IBM convention. 1910s – 20s. Good condition. 150/250 347. Vernon, Dai (David Frederick Wingfield Verner). Portrait of Dai Vernon signed and inscribed to Paul Fox. Sepia toned ½ length portrait of Vernon in his prime, arms folded across his chest. 3 ½ x 5 ½”. Ca. 1933. Light wear at extremities, but overall good condition. Warmly signed and inscribed, “To my friend Paul one of the “Master Minds” of magic. Sincerely, Dai W. Vernon.” 250/350
347
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 67
348 349 348. Vernon, Dai. Select Secrets. New York, 1941. Light blue wraps, illustrated with line drawings. 8vo. Light wear and toning at extremities, but overall good condition. Signed and inscribed “To Paul Fox one of my very best friends, Dai Vernon.” 200/300
68 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
349. Vernon, Dai. Silhouette of Margaret Grace Fuchs (Paul Fox’s daughter), cut by Dai Vernon. Denver, 1932. On a mount measuring 3 ¼ x 4 ½”. Framed and glazed. Very good condition. Signed and dated by Vernon. 300/400 With: A postcard-size birth announcement of Margaret Grace Fuchs printed in pink ink on heavy card stock and depicting a stork producing a baby from a hat.
351
352
353
352
From the Collection of Dai Vernon 350. [Correspondence] Archive of 30 letters written to Dai Vernon. Including ALS and TLS from well- and lesser-known magicians including Paul Curry, Faucett Ross, Ellsworth Lyman, Dr. Hiroshi Sawa, Allen Okawa, Ray Grismer, Bob Snodell and others. 1960s – 80s. Generally good condition. Should be seen. 150/250 351. Henning, Doug. Photograph of Dai Vernon and Doug Henning. A candid ¾ length color snapshot of the two great Canadian magicians, master and student, arm in arm. Dated July 1974. Lightly soiled and toned, but overall good condition. 50/100 352. [Photographs] Group of 13 photographs of magicians. From the collection of Dai Vernon and including images of Richiardi, Williard the Wizard, The Great Leon’s Death Ray Gun illusion, Glen Pope (signed and inscribed to Vernon), George Jason (signed and inscribed to Vernon), Les Levante (signed and inscribed) and more. Most 8 x 10”. 1920s – 80s. Good condition. 100/200
353. Ross, Faucett. Group of Faucett Ross ephemera. Owned by Ross’s closest friend and the man for whom Ross wrote the famous $20 and $5 manuscripts for, and including eleven photographs (one framed, one including Michael Skinner, one with Ross, Jay Ose and Vernon with Mr. Ed, and several candid), as well as an early Ross business card. Good condition. 100/200 354. Thurston, Howard. Group of three Thurston throw out cards. Each different in design and composition, but all three bearing portraits of Thurston on the recto and different images on the versos. One depicts Thurston’s Spirit Cabinet, the second an ad for Miller Tires, and the third a cartoon of Thurston, skull in hand. Fair condition. 150/300
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 69
357
355 355. Verner, Jeanne. Important four-page ALS from Jeanne Verner to her husband, Dai Vernon. A deeply personal missive from Vernon’s wife in which she addresses the issue of Vernon’s absence from New York “…when you failed to put in an appearance, and I didn’t receive a letter or wire I became greatly worried.”, their finances, “…for if my suspicions are correct we are going to need all the money we can get.”, their relationship, “Although I don’t believe you miss me the slightest bit, I’ve been very lonely without you. If you’ll notice the telegram I sent, you’ll notice a little word near the end which you failed to add to your wire. The word was “love.” Affairs must be in a sad state, my dear, when I find it necessary to remind you to send love and kisses.”, and an effort to patch things up: “I begin to realize what a “wonderful mate” I picked when I chose D.W.V. – in spite of the fact that you will pay with a pack of cards and pester me about the part in your hair.” Two pages, front-and-back, with original mailing cover. Signed “Worlds of love and kisses, Your own Jeanne.” Folded from mailing and with several small unobtrusive chips. Good condition. 300/500
357. Vernon, Dai. Dai Vernon’s bank ledger books. Including one vest pocket size book from the Bank of America, Hollywood, spanning the years 1963 – 67, a Bank of Ireland deposit book likely from Vernon’s lecture tours of the United Kingdom spanning 1958 – 64, and a sell order sent to Vernon divesting him of an investment in Bank of Ireland stock. All worn from use but in good condition. 300/500 358. Vernon, Dai. Group of Dai Vernon cards and tickets. Including one Vernon business card with the words “Merry Christmas” written on it in Vernon’s hand, Vernon’s AFTRA membership card for 1979, a second and different Vernon business card, a ticket to a Vernon lecture at the Hotel McAlpin (1946), ticket to a Vernon performance in Ottawa, and Vernon’s name badge from the 1968 Midwest Magic Jubilee. Condition varies, but generally good. 150/250
356. Vernon, Dai. Jokes and signatures written by Dai Vernon. Typewritten jokes and lines on Magic Castle letterhead, and a Magic Castle envelope on which Vernon practiced his signature. Vernon’s signature appears eight times on the envelope; notes in his hand appear on the verso of both items. 75/150 359
359. Vernon, Dai. Dice Cup owned by Dai Vernon. Black leather dice cup, five red King’s Crown Las Vegas dice, and one oversized red Lucite die 4 x 4 x 4”. Good condition. 50/100
70 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
360
363
360. Vernon, Dai. Close-up magic tricks owned by Dai Vernon. Including a Bakelite Finger Chopper, Brass Cubio, Phantom Tube, brass Key and Ring puzzle, brass die canister, and commemorative Willard the Wizard coin (number 362 of 1000 struck in a “nickeleen” finish). 1930s – 70s. Good condition. 150/200
363. Vernon, Dai. Two photographs of Dai Vernon and Fred Kaps. Sutton, Bennett and Eagen, ca. 1977. Likely taken at the Ramsay Reunion convention, Vernon holds court for a small crowd of magicians, among them Fred Kaps (in both photos) and Patrick Page. 8 x 10” in presentation folders. Good condition. 200/300
361. Vernon, Dai. Archive of newspaper clippings featuring Dai Vernon. Approximately 30 pieces kept by Vernon including feature stories from newspapers and magazines about Vernon and his contemporaries, and including advertisements for Vernon performances, photographs at the Magic Castle, clippings from his cruises to South America, and more. 1940s – 70s. Most tattered at edges and condition ranging from fair to good. Should be seen. 50/100
364
362 362. Vernon, Dai. Dai Vernon’s handwritten introduction to The Vernon Chronicles. In black ink on lined yellow notepaper and describing not only the books which bore his name, but also some of Vernon’s personal history. Dated in the upper margin in Bruce Cervon’s hand “7/24/87.” Central fold, otherwise good condition. 100/200
364. Vernon, Dai. Two Dai Vernon scrapbooks and fragments. Including an oversized photo album compiled for Vernon to commemorate his 84th birthday party, and containing various birthday cards signed to him by well-known magicians (among them Herb Zarrow, Conrad “Connie” Bush, Tony Spina, and others; and five photographs of the party. Accompanied by ten oversize loose pages of a scrapbook compiled for Vernon’s 92nd birthday held at The Magic Castle and containing over 24 photographs of Vernon and attendees; and a small photo album containing 48 candid snapshots from a meeting of the “Pony Express Magic Society” of St. Joseph, Mo. Approximately half of these pictures include Vernon and Faucett Ross. Several pages or large book loose, overall good condition. 300/500
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 71
368
367
369 370
366
Silhouettes 365. Vernon, Dai. Risqué Silhouette cut by Dai Vernon. Cut from white paper, and depicting the legs of a man and woman in flagrante delicto; the act in which the couple is engaged can be better seen, and in fact demonstrated, when the silhouette is held to the light and moved back and forth. According to Bruce Cervon, the silhouette was cut by Vernon while in the Magic Castle library in February, 1965, and thrown into the garbage, from which Cervon rescued it. In an envelope dated 2/65. Very good condition. Rare. 800/1,200 366. Vernon, Dai. Silhouette of a girl cut by Dai Vernon. N.p., ca. 1940. On a mount measuring 2 ¼ x 3 ¼”. Unobtrusive central fold and extremities worn, otherwise good condition. 200/300 367. Vernon, Dai. Silhouette of Edward “Ted” Verner, Vernon’s son. N.p., ca. 1945. On a mount measuring 3 ½ x 5 ½”. Good condition. 250/350
72 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
368. Vernon, Dai. Silhouette of Diane Verner, Vernon’s granddaughter. N.p., 1951. On a mount measuring 3 x 4”. Soiled and worn, with notations in Bruce Cervon’s hand on the verso; fair condition. Signed and dated by Vernon. 150/250 369. Vernon, Dai. Silhouette of magician Gerald Kosky. New York, 1949. On an elaborately embossed mount measuring 6 x 8”. Edges of mount lightly toned and corners bumped, otherwise good condition. Signed in pencil by Vernon. 300/400 370. Vernon, Dai. Silhouette of a young woman. N.p., ca. 1947. Mis-identified as Jeanne Verner on the verso in Bruce Cervon’s hand. On a mount measuring 3 x 4”. Soiled and worn; fair condition. Signed faintly by Vernon. 150/250
374
371
373 371. Vernon, Dai. Group of over 50 candid photographs of Dai Vernon. Primarily from Vernon’s years at the Magic Castle, and featuring many other prominent magicians, among them Jay Ose, Dr. Sawa, Dick Zimmerman, Harry Blackstone, Sr., Joe Berg, Leo Behnke, Lennart Green, John Carney, Fred Robinson and a host of others. Color and black and white, 1950s – 80s. Good condition. Should be seen. 200/300 372. Vernon, Dai. Group of over 70 photographs of Dai Vernon’s 1981 trip to Japan. Including images of Vernon with Steve Freeman, Tony Spina, Gary Ouellet, and groups of Japanese magicians. Vernon is featured prominently in over half of the images, all of which are candid snapshots. Good condition. 50/100
375 374. Vernon, Dai. U.S. Passport of Dai Vernon. Issued in 1982, and stamped for multiple entries to Spain, Canada, Portugal and the United States. Vernon’s address is listed as 7001 Franklin, Ave. (The Magic Castle). Very good condition. Signed by Vernon. 400/500 375. Vernon, Dai. Collection of six notes and drawings in Dai Vernon’s hand. Including five small sheets with notes, instructions for tricks, a possible outline for a lecture (entries include, “Finley Location,” “Malini Prep for Force,” “Erdnase Palm Under Top,” etc.), a mnemonic list (stating “Property of Dai Vernon” at top margin), a list of dealing procedure for a trick (listing tops, bottoms, and buckles), and a pencil sketch of a tropical scene titled “Nurses and Girls Quarters. Ca. 1970s. Wear from use to each item, overall good condition. 150/300
373. Vernon, Dai. Oversized studio portrait of Dai Vernon. Goleta, Gilberts Studio, 1965. A handsome bust portrait of Vernon in profile taken two years after he settled in Los Angeles. In a presentation folder 10 ½ x 14 ¼”. Good condition. 150/250
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 73
376
377 379 376. Vernon, Dai. Original caricature of African American sketched by Dai Vernon. [New York], ca. 1915. Politically incorrect in the extreme, this early sketch, possibly executed during Vernon’s short time as an art student, is a comic depiction of an African man wearing oversized white gloves, and bears the caption, “I’ll catch dat chicken yet.” Outlined in black ink and painted with two bright accent colors. 4 x 6 ½”, on lined notebook paper with an unfinished pencil sketch on the verso. Worn and with an unobtrusive central fold line, but overall good condition. Signed “Verner.”
378. Vernon, Dai. Five novelty souvenir books owned by Dai Vernon. Including three calendar/datebooks stamped with Vernon’s name and produced for him in Italy, one novelty book entitled How I Won a Million Dollars in Las Vegas by The Professor Dai Vernon (signed and inscribed to Vernon, but with text in Japanese), and a clothbound volume bearing Vernon’s portrait on the cover and stamped with the title Magic 50 Years Remembered: My Locked Secrets Dai Vernon and with a lock running through the pages and covers. Good condition. 75/150
500/750 377. Vernon, Dai. Portrait of Dai Vernon. New York, Hal Phyfe, ca. 1932. An alternate pose from the famous session at which Phyfe photographed the iconic image of Vernon as a young man in a serious pose with smoke curling upward from his hands; this portrait strikes a great contrast in that Vernon is seen to be scolding the fan of cards in his hand. 5 x 7”. Light crease to upper left corner, otherwise good condition. 300/500
74 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
379. Vernon, Dai. Verner family coat of arms original artwork. This crest of the Verner (Vernon) family includes snakes, bales of hay, armor and ravens in its composition, but likely does not date back to the family’s beginnings in Ireland. Executed in pen and ink, pencil and gouache, but apparently unfinished, as many of the adornments surrounding the shield are penciled in. 8 x 7 ½”. Worn and starting at fold lines, edges worn and chipped; fair condition. 400/500
382 381
Magic from Various Collections Apparatus 380. [Abbott’s Magic] Five tricks manufactured by Abbott’s Magic Company. Including The Confetti Box, a transformation of a glass of confetti into other items; the Tipping Martini Bottle, a favorite of Abbott’s vice president Neil Foster in his famous Concert of Magic act; The Improved Last Card, a prediction effect accompanied by handwritten instructions and diagrams by Duke Stern on Abbott’s letterhead, and the original printed instructions; the Tumblebug, in which a small block of wood tumbles over for you but not for the spectator; and Abbott’s Chinese Coins, a complete color-changing coin routine with props and instructions. 1950s – 80s. Condition generally good. 150/250 381. [Automaton] Cup and Ball Magician Automaton. Los Angeles, Alan Wakeling, ca. 2002. Handsome magician automaton in good working order. The magician raises and lowers both arms and nods his head. He covers the table in front of him with a cup held in one hand and each time he raises the cup, the object under it – a ball – has changed or vanished. Operated with a hand-crank mechanism, the magician performs his feats accompanied by Vivaldi’s Spring. The components of
this handsome automaton were crafted by Alan Wakeling and his wife Helen Wakeling; Alan constructed the mechanism and working parts, Helen sculpted the face. Final assembly, costume, and finishing were completed by Eric Olsen and John Uhern of EDF. Each automaton the Wakelings constructed was built to order at significant cost, and small number of Cup and Ball magicians were constructed. Overall height of 32”, base measures 17 x 14 x 7”. Supplied with a sturdy aluminum foampadded case for transportation. Some restoration and repairs, but good working condition. 10,000/12,000 382. [Automaton] Robert-Houdin Blooming Orange Tree automaton. Paris, Pierre Mayer, ca. 2005. A small barren tree slowly sprouts orange blossoms. Then oranges grow from it, and finally, one orange splits open and from within are produced two butterflies which carry a handkerchief and ring with them. Resting on a wooden base with the brass gears, cams, and springs exposed; operated by a hand crank. Complete with wooden carrying case and cutout figure of Robert-Houdin which may be attached to the rear of the automaton as if the great French magician were looking over his great creation. Overall height of 12”. Hallmarked. Good condition. 2,500/3,500
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 75
384
383. Ballot Box. American, ca. 1925. Handsome hardwood box with a slot cut in its lid to accept ballots (or billets) and which is cleverly gimmicked to allow the performer to exchange one group of ballots for another via a folding false bottom inside the box and a secret sliding door well-concealed on the underside of the box. Finished similarly to Thayer’s Nest of Boxes. 8 ¼ x 5 ½ x 11 ¼”. Light scratches and imperfections in finish, but good condition. 200/300
Flowers that Bloom with a Spring? 384. Blooming Rose Bush. New Haven, Petrie & Lewis, ca. 1950. A barren green plant in a large pot rests on the magician’s table. At the performer’s command, the bush slowly begins to sprout and grow real roses, which can be distributed to audience members. Faux plant is manufactured of copper, cloth and plastic fake leaves. Hallmarked. Wear to foliage and finish of pot, but otherwise good condition. 2,500/3,500 Widely acclaimed by the magical fraternity, this version of the classic flower growing trick was used by several top professional magicians in the first half of the 20th century, among them Dante and Dell O’Dell. However, the apparatus was costly, and therefore infrequently manufactured by P&L. Perhaps fewer than 24 examples were ever constructed. Still, the company thought highly enough of its invention to register it with the US Patent office.
76 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
385. Card Ladle. English, ca. 1880. Toleware metal ladle that can secretly switch cards, billets and other flat items. Spring loaded mechanism. Good working condition, but finish and paint significantly worn and chipped. Ex-Magic Circle Collection. 300/400 386. [Close-Up Magic] Group of close-up magic tricks and gimmicks. From the collection of Bruce Cervon and including a miniature P&L Phantom Die, Anverdi-type Enchanted Ring, Paul Diamond Reel, Ellis Ring, Locking Kirkendall Reel, a small Mysteries of Magic set (box in poor condition), Donald Holmes Mirror Glass, sparking cigarette box, and more. 1920s – 70s. Condition generally good. 150/250 387. Coin Pail. European, ca. 1960. Unusual and small nickelplated brass pail outfitted with gimmicks which facilitate the production of an endless stream of coins from thin air. Gimmicks accommodate coins smaller than American quarter dollars. Pail stands 4 ½” high. Good condition. 75/150
391. Florabella. Colon, Abbott’s Magic Co., ca. 1965. Gigantic metal tube is repeatedly shown empty, yet the magician produces a seemingly endless quantity of feather flowers from its interior, which he throws to the stage where they stand upright. Tube stands 21 ½” high. Flowers show use, otherwise very good condition. 300/400 392. Lota Bowl. New Haven, Petrie & Lewis, ca. 1939. Handsome copper bowl magically fills with water and is emptied, only to refill itself again. 7” high with an opening 4 ¾” in diameter. Hallmarked. Very good condition. 150/300
388 388. Continental Cabinet. Colon, Abbott’s Magic, ca. 1960. Handsome wooden cabinet is shown empty by thrusting the magician’s hand through it. Later, a large production is made from it. Attractively lacquered in black, gold, red and green. 6 ¼ x 6 ¼ x 15”. Good condition. 75/150 389. [Egg Bags] Four vintage egg bag effects with historic associations. Including Billy McComb’s Whiskey Bag used by McComb with glasses and a photograph of McComb performing the effect; also bags once belonging to and used by Herbert J. Collings (an early president of The Magic Circle and performer at Maskelyne’s St. George’s Hall), Henry Hull, and the noted magic “philopher” and author Sam H. Sharpe (accompanied by a note signed by Sharpe). Ex- Magic Circle & John Fisher collections. The McComb bag has a separate letter of authenticity. All in used but good condition. 150/250
393 393. Presto Card Frame. Alhambra, Owen Magic Supreme, ca. 1965. Hardwood frame resting on a heavy metal base in which a vanished card reappears. Crackle finish base. Hallmarked. Good condition. 150/250
390 390. Enchanted Flower House. London, J. Bland, ca. 1905. A small model or doll’s house which can be shown empty yet will produce three separate loads of spring flowers and silks. Cleverly design with spring flaps, two of which can be operated from outside. Printed paper covering simulates the look of an English cottage. 9 x 6 ½ x 9”. Includes spring flowers. With some expected age wear, but surprisingly good, working condition overall considering its ephemeral composition. 250/350
394 394. Rice Vase. Los Angeles, F.G. Thayer & Co., ca. 1929. Wood turned vase from which a quantity of rice vanishes and in its place appears an orange. Gold lacquered gesso finish. 12 ¼” high. Small scratches and light wear, but good working condition. 200/300
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 77
395
397
395. Rising Card Tray. Los Angeles, F.G. Thayer & Co., ca. 1935. A pack of cards is placed in a goblet and set on a round wooden tray. Selected cards then magically rise from the pack. Goblet may not be original. Light wear to mechanical tray, but overall very good condition. 250/350
397. Spirit Dial. London, J. Bland, ca. 1890. The magician spins a metal hand at the center of a square glass clock dial. The hand stops on a number called by the audience. Thick glass dial measures 10” square. Some wear to paper numbers and chain likely a modern replacement, otherwise good condition. Uncommon. 150/250
Books
396 398 396. Silk Cabby and original catalog art. Columbus, U.F. Grant, ca. 1960. A solidly constructed, nicely finished early Grant Silk Cabby, together with the original pen & ink sketch by Ed Mishell used to illustrate the effect in early Grant catalogs. Light wear to finish of box and from use of artwork, but overall good condition. 150/250
398. Findlay, James. Anderson and his Theatre. Shanklin, 1967. From a limited edition of 150 copies. Publisher’s wraps, illustrated. 8vo. Light wear at spine; good condition. Signed by Findlay. 150/200 399. Findlay, James. Juggling Through Four Reins. Glasgow, 1945. Stiff pictorial wraps. Minor spotting to front wrap, otherwise very good condition. 50/150 400. Findlay, James. Magic Coins of Czechoslovakia. Shanklin, 1969. One of a limited edition of 100 copies. Wraps. Very good condition. 150/200
78 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
401
402
401. Findlay, James. Percy Naldrett A Memoir. Seventh Collectors Annual. London, 1969. One of 150 copies. Blue wraps. Illustrated. Very good condition. 100/200 402. Jay, Ricky. Cards as Weapons. New York, 1977. Publisher’s pictorial wraps, illustrated. Large 8vo. Extremities bumped and lower right corner scuffed, otherwise good condition. Signed and “For Don Lawton, with thanks for posing as a judge and Ricky Jay.” 150/250 Lawton appears, along with Dai Vernon and Joe Cossari in photographs on page 72 of the book, dressed as a judge. inscribed
for not sentencing me to a few years of hard labor,
403
403. Jay, Ricky. Learned Pigs and Fireproof Women. New York, 1986. Publisher’s red boards over cloth, illustrated. 4to. Jacket worn at extremities, otherwise very good condition. Signed and inscribed “For Don Lawton, A Real Charmer, Fondly, Ricky Jay.” 75/150 404. Tarbell, Harlan. The Tarbell Course in Magic Vol. 6. New York, 1954. Publisher’s light blue cloth stamped in gold. Illustrated. 8vo. Bound upside down and backwards. Backstrip faded and wear at extremities, otherwise good condition. Signed and inscribed “To my friend Don Lawton, Life on earth, like this book, is sometimes topsy-turvy or upside-down. Harlan Tarbell” and accompanied by a drawing in Tarbell’s hand. 75/150 405. The Whole Art of Legerdemain, or Hocus Pocus Laid Open and Explained… Baltimore, 1830. Publisher’s buffcolored pictorial boards, 12mo. Housed in an archival folding book box. Lacking the fontispiece and final leaf, disbound, boards significantly rubbed and in poor condition. Still, a scarce book. Toole-Stott 722. 500/750
404
405
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 79
408
406
Ephemera and Posters 406. [Abbott’s Magic] Abbott’s Get-Together welcome sign. Autographed by many in attendance including Cardini, Roy DeFaka and his wife (who were married at the Get-Together in 1947 under the large circus tent where the evening shows were staged), Percy Abbott, Dell O’ Dell, Menge The Magic Maker, Karrell Fox and more. Features an original painted bunny sketch and hand lettering by Abbott’s illustrator Howard “Mel” Melson. Ca. 1947. Wear from age as expected; overall good condition. 250/350
408. [Autographs] Collection of magicians’ autographs presented to Gerald Kosky. On a lined sheet of browned notepaper and bearing the headline, “Greetings to Gerald Kosky, from the Gang- Rosoff Hotel, April 20, 1939, New York City.” Among the 27 signatures included are those of Theo Hardeen (brother of Houdini), Al Baker, Jacob Daley, S. Leo Horowitz, Elmer Ransom, Max Holden, Frank Ducrot, Leo Rullman, Royal Vale Heath, Charles Larson, Leslie P. Guest, and others. Paper toned from age and folded once; top edge ragged, but overall good condition. 100/200
409 407 407. [Autographs] Group of 42 autographs of famous magicians. Including the signatures and inscriptions of Professor Hoffmann, P.T. Selbit, Horace Goldin, Frederick Culpitt, Dante, Edward Victor, Chris Van Bern, Rameses, The Great Carmo, Murray, Lewis Davenport, Will Goldston and many others. Some signatures are accompanied by charming sketches or miniature photographs of the signers. From various small disbound autograph albums, with some on gilt-edged card stock. 1910s – 40s. Good condition. 175/225
80 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
409. Blackstone, Harry. Group of three pieces of Blackstone ephemera. Including a real photo postcard of Blackstone boldly signed and inscribed to Jimmy Jenkins, a photograph of Jenkins with a guillotine illusion (and bearing Bruce Cervon’s notes about Jenkins and his exit from magic on the verso), and an unused free pass to the Blackstone show. Ca. 1947. Postcard shows wear, otherwise good condition. 100/200 410. Blackstone, Harry. Baffling! World’s Greatest Magician. Blackstone. Chicago, Globe Poster Corp., ca. 1930. Two-sheet (40 x 55 ½”) three-color poster depicting Blackstone’s portrait overlooking a snake charmer and devils. Linen backed, good condition. 400/600
411
413
411. Baldwin, S.S. The White Mahatma. Samri S. Baldwin. Halfsheet (20 x 28 ½”) color lithograph depicting a striking portrait of Baldwin amidst a burst of blue and yellow. Over-coloring and one unobtrusive stain to upper left, otherwise good condition. Linen backed. 800/1,200 412. Carter, Charles. The Elongated Maiden. Cleveland, Otis Litho Co. Three-Sheet (40 x 80”) color lithographed poster depicting an Asian scene and Carter’s “stretching a woman” illusion in vivid colors. Good condition, linen backed. 600/900 413. Carter, Charles. Carter Impersonating the Great Chinese Magicians. Chicago, Goes Litho., ca. 1905. Half-sheet (21 x 27 ½”) color lithograph depicting Carter’s performances of various Chinese feats including the production of a massive bowl of water, and well as Corrine Carter manipulating billiard balls. Linen backed, with restoration to borders; good condition. Rare. 6,000/8,000 414. Carter, Charles. The World’s Weird Wonderful Wizard. Cleveland, Otis Litho Co., ca. 1926. Three-sheet (40 x 80”) color lithographed poster depicting a portrait of a turbaned Carter looking over a globe of the earth and surrounded by devils. Linen backed. Good condition. 1,000/1,500
414
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 81
415. Germain, Karl (Karl Mattmueller). Important eight-page Germain ALS to Paul Fleming. Written to good friend Paul Fleming and with strong magic content. Dated Sunday Dec. 7, 1913. Beautifully penned, the letter is filled with Germain’s humorous observations and wit, as funny today as the day it was written. Germain discusses Thurston: “our friend Thurston who appeared here Thanksgiving week - without Mrs. Thurston. I do not know how serious the trouble is between them but I see a chance of marrying into the business. Am awaiting your advice.” And, “Thurston had same old show, only new feature an illusion in which shadows of three different people appear on a curtain stretched in front of a cabinet containing lights- very weird and mysterious effect..I have decorated a new illusion Thurston built while here – “Balaam & his Ass”, idea not bad but have not seen it worked.” Germain goes on to comment: “I feel entitled to a small share of your honors, you see, for I think I did my share to discourage you from following the ‘frivolous path’ of magic..I’m not unaware of the fact that a relapse of magicitis may reappear at intervals..I think you need just one more tour with Germain to make the business thoroughly obnoxious to you and thus complete the cure.” Of Kellar, Germain comments, “Kellar was here for four days and we had a great time. He has not aged a day since I saw him last and is as full of the ‘old Harry’ as any boy.” “(Kellar) came over to see my shop and studio, danced around like Gimbel when I showed him new spirit table and reproached himself for not having fallen upon so silly an idea himself during all the years he floated a table.” Germain also explains an effect Kellar performed with bedbugs using wax and a very fine hair, complete with sketch showing the setup. Germain’s humor is present throughout: “I am inclosing a one and five dollar bill..presume you will have no great difficulty getting rid of it..if you don’t like to bother the banker go to Philadelphia and buy some magical apparatus with it. Thus for once, the magical dealer will get a fair fight and a square deal.” Four pages, double sided. Signed “Karulus”. Very good condition. 1,200/1800
415
416
416. Grant, U.F. UF Grant original catalog art. Four pieces including sketches by Ed Mishell (for Linked and Lightning Rod), an early illustration by Tom Lawless, and an illustration by Herb Borin (for Safari). All as used in the early Grant/MAK catalogs. Good condition. 80/120 417. Herrmann, Alexander. Program for Herrmann at the Boston Theatre. For the week beginning July 13, 1874. Octavo bi-fold program titled The Ray, details Herrmann’s “Budget of Marvels,” which included a Miraculous Escape from The Magic Cross, Paganini’s Fiddle, The Senegalian Hen and the Egyptian Pocket and many more feats. Torn, chipped, and fragile, but intact. 100/200
82 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
417
418
420 419 418. Herrmann, Leon. One-page ALS from Leon Herrmann to W.D. LeRoy. Dated March 9th, 1908 and on Herrmann’s elaborate pictorial letterhead, Herrmann writes to the Boston-based magic manufacturer and places an order for various tricks. Some dampstaining, one closed tear reinforced with tape, and minor wear to extremities. Boldly signed “L Herrmann.” 250/350 419. [Hooker Card Rise] William Stout original art for the Hooker Card Rise. A striking and wonderful depiction of Dr. Samuel Cox Hooker, Millitides III the bear, and his legendary rising cards. From this artwork which was reproduced as the limited edition poster for the 2007 Los Angeles Conference on Magic History and accompanying souvenir program. On a large flexible board measuring 20 x 30”. Fine condition. 2,000/3,000 420. Houdini Statuette. American, ca. 1910. Handsome fulllength bronze statuette of the great escape artist and magician in a strongman-type pose, a chain dangling between his arms. 6” tall. Possibly removed from a larger tableaux of statues, but good condition. 250/350
421 421. Houdini, Harry. Hand drawn sketch/notes for a packing crate escape. In heavy pencil on one of his photo lettergrams. Houdini draws a rough sketch of a crate and adds “14 boards/8 1/4 x 1 - 40 / ends.” Although unsigned, an interesting piece with great association. Ca. 1920. Good condition. 500/600
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 83
423
422. Kellar, Harry. Kellar. Cincinnati, Strobridge Litho Co., ca. 1907. Three-sheet (40 x 84”) color lithographed bust portrait of an older Kellar on a blue background wearing a suit and monktype collar and with his name in the foreground. Linen backed, good condition. 1,500/1,800 Robert Lund, founder of the American Museum of Magic, opined that an entertainer was truly famous when his posters advertised not what he did, but only who he was. Kellar was one such entertainer.
Don Lawton’s Autograph Book 423. Lawton, Don. Don Lawton’s Autograph Book. This octavo leather bound autograph album with gilded pages and a ribbon bookmark was kept by the well known and loved magician, magic dealer, publisher, television performer and Magic Castle host, Don Lawton beginning in 1946, when he was only 24 years old. It contains 128 autographs of some celebrities, but mostly well-known magicians. The names read like a “who’s who” of the magic world from the middle of the 20th century. Among the autographees are: Harry Blackstone, Sr. (with a full-page caricature of himself accompanying his autograph), Henny
84 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
Youngman, George Segal, Carl Ballantine, Shirley Jones, Isabel Sanford (“Weezy” from The Jeffersons), Percy Abbott, Howard Melson (his autograph also accompanied by a self-portrait), P.C. Sorcar, Okito, John Mulholland, Jay Marshall (“Your appeal is fruitless”), Silent Mora, Stewart Judah, McDonald Birch, Joe Berg (twice), Sid Lorraine (twice), Jean Hugard, Charles H. Larson, George & Betty Johnstone, Eddie Joseph and family, Clarke “The Senator” Crandall (“Magic, Music & Mustache”), Milbourne Christopher, Dr. Jaks (with a self-portrait accompanying his inscription), Harlan Tarbell, Dell O’Dell, Bert Allerton, Johnny Paul, Paul LePaul, Jack Gwynne, and dozens more. Many of the autographs are accompanied by witty inscriptions and sentiments; several were written to Lawton during his tenure as the owner of a retail magic outlet in St. Louis by fellow dealers, when meeting fellow performers at magic conventions in Chicago and Colon, Michigan (Abbott’s Get-Togethers). The most recent signatures were obtained from celebrities who visited the Magic Castle in the 1970s, where Lawton was a popular performer and host. The album’s backstrip has been rubbed, and the binding has been shaken, but overall the contents are sound and the condition is very good. 3,000/3,500
426 424. [Magic Castle] Collection of over 20 Magic Castle award ceremony programs. Including a program for the first annual Magic Castle Awards Banquet in 1968 (signed and inscribed to Bruce and Peggy Cervon by Dai Vernon (whose hands grace the cover of the program), as well as Rose Marie and Robert Lansing), and programs for nearly all of the events through the 1970s through the mid-1990s. Accompanied by a cache of tickets, invitations and associated ephemera. A unique archive. Generally good condition. 150/250 425. Okito (Tobias Theodore Bamberg). Important TLS regarding the history of Where Do the Ducks Go. On Hotel Wacker letterhead, and dated May 1st, 1961. Okito sets the record straight regarding the origin of the Where Do The Ducks Go illusion. “First of all, I never invented that effect, the true inventor was Servais LeRoy.” Okito then explains some improvements he made when he built his new act in 1919. Signed in ink as Theo. 200/300 426. Raymond, Maurice. The Great Raymond original artwork. Two striking pen-and-ink illustrations used for Raymond’s publicity material. One relates to a spirit cabinet (a regular feature of Raymond’s show), the other depicts rabbits producing the magician. Both measure 14 x 8 ½”. Ca. 1940. Good condition. 80/120 427. Rooklyn, Maurice. Archive of 23 letters written to Maurice Rooklyn. Including ALS and TLS from well- and lesser-known magicians, including Jeff Atkins, Milbourne Christopher, Maurice Fogel, Lewis Ganson and William Stickland. Many with interesting contents. 1950s – 70s. Most with wear at extremities and some repaired contemporarily with tape, but generally good condition. 100/200
428
428. Ross, Faucett. Archive of 103 letters from Faucett Ross to Earl W. Violet. Penned in Ross’ longhand and spanning the 1930s and 40s, these missives discuss tricks, gossip and magic-related ideas. Ross was a perpetual correspondent and wrote frequently with Charlie Miller, Paul Fox, Charles Maly, Bruce Cervon, and many other well-posted magicians. Earl Violet was one such magician who not only traded secrets with, but also built props for Ross. Their correspondence frequently refers to the trading of various books and manuscripts between them, complete routines and patter for various tricks, sketches for apparatus and gimmicks in Ross’ hand, as well as the activities of various luminaries of the day, among them Annemann, T. Nelson Downs and Dai Vernon. In one letter, Ross mentions “this Chap Miller” who will visit him soon. This reference is, presumably, to the first meeting between Ross and Charles Earle Miller who would later become not only one of Ross’ close friends (and frequent houseguest), but one of the most skilled sleight-of-hand magicians of the 20th century. Letters range in length from postcards to multiple pages; some are written on Ross’ letterhead, while others are on blank notepaper. A fascinating and unmatchable archive of significant historic importance documenting magic’s inner circle and its activities in the first half of the 20th century by men who lived and participated in it. Some letters show wear and folds as expected, but overall condition is very good. From the collection of Bruce Cervon. 1,000/1,500 With: A cache of over 30 typescript instructions for tricks (some with marginal notations) sent to Violet by Ross.
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 85
429. [Stock Poster] Stock poster of a magician with snakes, devils and skeletons. Hamburg, Adoph Friedlander, 1919. One sheet (28 x 34”) color lithographed poster depicting a bearded magician performing a decapitation feat, and producing a wide range of items including flowers, ducks and serpents. Mounted to stiff board and discolored; fair condition. 75/150 430. Thurston, Howard. TLS from Howard Thurston to W.J. “Doc” Nixon, written on Thurston The Magician letterhead/ Playhouse Theatre, Wilmington Deleware, Nov. 16th 1929. Thurston requests more information regarding the Spirit Cabinet which Nixon is offering for sale. “Tell me all the effects and describe the illusion in detail. I think I will want it.” He then discusses the possible purchase of a P&L Shooting Through A Woman illusion but will only pay $100.00. Nixon was asking for $125. Good condition. Signed in ink, Howard Thurston. 300/400
431 431. Thurston, Howard. “She Floats” window card collage. Most likely Thurston’s personal property; crudely framed against purple cloth with four throw out cards of Howard & Jane Thurston affixed to the corners. Someone has penciled in facial hair on the images of Thurston. The newspaper used to back the frame is dated 1934. 250/350 Originally from the Thurston items owned by Gerald Heaney of Berlin, Wisconsin, and later sold by Dr. Fred Kruse who claimed this was assembled by Jane Thurston for her father.
86 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
432
432. Thurston, Howard. Do The Spirits Come Back? Thurston the Great Magician. Cleveland, Otis Litho Co., ca. 1926. Threesheet (40 x 80”) color lithograph poster of Thurston, skull in hand with spirits and devils floating about his head and body, and his portrait above a large block of text. Linen backed, good condition. Scarce. 6,000/8,000
Thurston According to Kellar 434. Thurston, Howard. Thurston The Great Magician. Cincinnati, Strobridge Litho Co., ca. 1908. Three-sheet (40 x 84”) color lithograph depicting vignettes from Thurston’s show in the years just after his purchase of Kellar’s “mantle” of magic, and including the Kellar Levitation, Inexhaustible Cocoanut, Pigeon Pie, balloons from a hat, The Prisoner of Canton, and more. The bottom of the poster bears the following text: “Mr. Kellar Says: “Thurston is the greatest magician the world has ever known.”” A striking and impressive image. Linen backed, good condition. Scarce. See rear cover. 9,000/11,000
435 433 433. Thurston, Howard. Kellar and Thurston. Howard Thurston. Cincinnati, Strobridge Litho Co., 1907. Three-sheet (40 x 84”) color lithograph depicting a striking bust portrait of a young Thurston in coat and tie. Issued to promote the joint tour of Kellar and Thurston during the 1907/08 theatrical season at the end of which Thurston assumed Kellar’s mantle of magic. Linen backed, good condition. 8,000/10,000 This is perhaps the only known example of this poster that bears both Kellar and Thurston’s name above Thurston’s portrait.
435. Thurston, Howard. Thurston World’s Famous Magician. Cleveland, Otis Litho Co., ca. 1926. One-sheet (27 x40”) color lithograph depicting the iconic portrait of Thurston with two devils perched on his shoulders, whispering in his ears. Linen backed, good condition. 700/900 436. Vernon, Dai. Two postcards from Dai Vernon to Gerald Kosky. Written in 1955 by Vernon while on his first lecture tour of England and Europe, one mailed from Paris and the other from Edinburgh. Vernon mentions good attendance at his lectures, Harry Stanley, and more. Good condition. Both cards signed in ink “Dai.” 150/300
Potter & Potter Auctions - October 23, 2010 • 87
440
Another Dead List? 437. Vernon, Dai. The Vernon Touch, September 1982. Written in Vernon’s hand in pencil on four legal-size pages, subject matter includes Lance Burton’s recent FISM win, The Magic Castle, and a long list of many of Vernon’s friends from his time in New York who had, by the time of writing, passed on. Initialed “D.V.” At the conclusion of the column, Vernon writes, “If the column needs padding, print Tony Giorgio.” Below this in Bruce Cervon’s hand is written, “Nothing need be said about this man.” Stapled in one corner. Good condition. 200/300 438. Vernon, Dai. The Vernon Touch, May 1986. Written in Vernon’s hand in pencil on five letter-size pages, subject matter includes Larry Grey and his abilities with cards, cutting FDR’s silhouette, meeting Dad Stevens in Chicago and learning his work, and his search for the Center Deal. One page lightly soiled, stapled in one corner. Good condition. 150/250
88 • The Collection of Herb Zarrow
439. Vernon, Dai. The Vernon Touch, June 1986. Written in Vernon’s hand in pencil on five letter-size pages, subject matter includes Erdnase and the advice he gives on page 168 of his classic book The Expert at the Card Table, Three Card Monte, Francis Carlyle, and Vernon’s tips on how to “get into” the glide and other tips on the move. Stapled in one corner. Good condition. 150/250 440. Wandas, The. The Wanda’s In Their Illusion. Paris, Louis Galice, ca. 1910. Attractive one sheet (31 ½ x 47 ¼”) color lithographed poster depicting Suzy Wandas and her manipulative act with coins in concert with her mother and sister. Folds and edges reinforced with archival tape, wear at extremities and folds, but overall good condition. Signed and inscribed by
Suzy Wandas.
800/1,200 Wandas worked first with her family in European music halls, both as a magician and musician; one of her turns consisted of balancing on a giant ball while playing the violin. She would go on to work the most prestigious venues in Europe as a “single” (a solo act) performing intricate manipulations with cards, cigarettes and coins. Her billing was “The Lady with the Fairy Fingers.”