This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/12/2020
George, Grover. Portrait of Illusionist Grover George, Inscribed and Signed. Columbus: Baker Art Gallery, ca. 1928. Profile bust portrait of the native Ohioan in white tie and tails. 8 x 10”. Inscribed and signed, “Yours truly, Grover G. George.” Minor edgewear, one corner clipped. Rare. In spite of the fact that George lithographs are relatively common, other memorabilia from his career is scarce if not genuinely rare. This is the first signed photograph of George we have encountered. Ironically, it was taken at the Baker Art Gallery in Columbus, Ohio, a favorite of presidents, celebrities, and other magicians, including Howard Thurston, a Columbus native and George’s chief rival. In fact, a dispute between Thurston and George kept the latter’s 1920s “triumphant American tour” from ever taking place. This led to George spending much of his professional life touring Central and South America. He settled in Brazil.