This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/17/2019
Dante (Harry August Jansen). Lobby Photo of Dante’s “Fountainia” Illusion. New York: Strand Photo Studio, ca. 1923. Handsome sepia-toned image shows Dante, resplendent in a Chinese robe, at the center of a stage filled with jets of water emanating from various props held by members of his company, and from the people themselves. The reverse bears the inscription, “To Cecil White, From Dante the Magician with best wishes Jan. 27 Year 1927.” Trimmed to 10 5/8 x 13 ¼”, partially obscuring inscription. Pinholes at edges. White was an assistant to Howard Thurston as well as Dante, who, in the 1920s, began his long climb up the ladder of show business success. Both illusionists featured the Fountania effect in their shows.