CONJUROR

A fascinating archive, reflecting Houdini's immense iconic status. The collection is in good condition, with only a few items showing signs of aging, such as a handful of magazines with loose covers or other pages. Apart from two items (described first below) the collection is divided into two parts, A and B: Part A comprises general Houdini ephemera, and Part B magazines featuring Houdini, 1909-1997.

The studio photograph, with printed label of 'Walter Baker, 159, Mosely Road, Birmingham. Highgate Studios.' on reverse, and the manuscript number '24704 | 98'. is a good clear head and shoulders portrait (dimensions roughly three and a half inches by two and a quarter wide), in very good condition. Although untitled, it seems to be Carl, as represented on the title-page of his book, without the moustache and a little younger. The book is twenty-eight pages, octavo, in original coloured printed boards. Numerous line drawings.

Hand (1907-86), an authority on American folklore, was Professor of Germanic Languages and Folklore at the University of California, Los Angeles. 9 pages (paginated as stated), octavo. In very good condition in light-blue printed card wraps. Minor spotting and discoloration. A 'survey, essentially, of the physical harm wrought by conjurers, [...] a discussion of sickness and disease, and other categories of physical impairment, and [...] a consideration of the nature of the magic employed, and the various circumstances and conditions under which it is carried out'.