This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/21/2022
SWANN, Russell. Russell Swan’s Sand Canisters. Colon: Abbott’s Magic Company [?], 1940s. A small metal canister fills a larger canister with sand repeatedly. The quantity of sand produced and received seems virtually endless. Includes custom case used by Swann to transport the effect marked “Personal Property: Capt. Russell Swann”. Larger canister height 11”. Significant wear from stage use. Russell Swann (born William Russell) “The Magic Man” was born in Maryland in 1901, the eldest of ten brothers. After settling on performing for a career – he tried acting and straight comedy, too – Swann rose through the ranks as one of the most successful nightclub acts of his era, alongside Fred Keating, Roy Benson, and Jay Marshall. For a three-decade stretch, from the 1930s to the 1960s, his unique style of suave and “swank” magic gained much attention and landed Swann headlining appearances at nearly every major nightclub and hotel stage across the globe including the famed Copacabana, The Rainbow Room, The Flamingo, The Ambassador, and countless others. His act was made up of routines, lines, and tricks that today are considered classics, including the Snake Basket and Head Chopper. He received a Performing Fellowship from the Academy of Magical Arts in 1979, and passed away in 1980.