This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/28/2023
HANUSSEN, Erik Jan. ERIK JAN HANUSSEN. HELLSEHEN. [Germany], ca. 1931. Color lithographed poster advertising occult-leaning séances at Hanussen’s mansion, the seer’s silhouetted profile outlined against a newspaper print background. Designed by Peter Eng. 27¼ × 18¼". Two tiny border chips, central fold and three small abrasions over-colored. A-. 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, barely a month after predicting the Reichstag fire which allowed Hitler to assume absolute power.