This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/12/2020
Barton, James. Portrait of Magician James “El Barto” Barton, Inscribed and Signed. Philadelphia: Sommer Studios, 1910. Cabinet card half-length portrait of the Pennsylvania magician who invented several effects, including the Billiard Ball Box, and in his formative years, served as an apprentice to Signor Blitz. 9 x 6”. With a lengthy inscription on the verso: “Notice – use no tacks. On the waters of life I may stray. From the dearest and best with regards. But in memory’s bright stone, night and day. Your friendship I’ll never forget. To the “Mustum in Parvo” of good fellows, “Sammy” Bailey from an appreciative friend and brother in the addictive art of “Hocus Pocus,” – “El Barto.” (N.B. I’ll take a little applause for that.) Dec. 6th 1910.” Embossed photographer’s mount with grommets above and below the portrait. Wear to extremities, else very good.