Select Secrets: Rare & Important Magicana

Hanussen, Erik Jan. Erik Jan Hanussen. Hellsehen. [Germany], ca. 1931. Striking lithographed poster advertising occult-leaning séances at Hanussen’s mansion. Designed by Peter Eng. 27 ¼ x 18 ¼”. General toning, long closed tear in lower third and clipped corners expertly repaired. B+. Linen backed. Rare. Biographer Mel Gordon dubbed Hanussen “Hitler’s Jewish Clairvoyant,” an apt title based on the psychic’s intimate involvement and friendships with members of the Third Reich. It was an association that would later cost Hanussen his life. This poster advertises séances Hanussen conducted at his home, aka the “Palace of the Occult.” In addition to apparently telling the future, Hanussen promoted the feats of strongmen, was a hypnotist, astrologer, and occultist. He was assassinated by the Nazis on March 25, 1933, shortly after predicting the Reichstag fire which allowed Hitler to assume absolute power.