This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/29/2022
RENO, ED (EDWARD MUNN BURDICK). MYSTERIOUS RENO AND HIS WONDER SHOW. PRINTING BLOCK. Circa 1900. Wooden printing block bearing a central portrait of the famed Chautauqua and Lyceum performer at its center with text above and below. Smooth back. 40 x 13”. Worn from use. Reno (1861 – 1949), or “uncle Ed” as he was known in later years, was a no-nonsense performer with a shabby appearance and shabbier props, who, nevertheless, was a remarkable entertainer with a long and illustrious career. What he lacked in polish he made up for with brash technique and witticisms won by performing in nearly every theatrical venue – including outdoor shows, where he excelled – as America transformed itself thanks to the industrial revolution. His catchphrase in later years, “it’s all in the stick” was a funny explanation as to why the magic happened, as his magic wand was a humble wooden dowel, not a bejeweled ebony rod with ivory tips. This is the first printing block carved from wood we have offered at auction.