JAY, Ricky (1946 – 2018). The Magic Magic Book. New York: Whitney Museum, 1994. Publisher’s black embossed paper, printed in grey and black. Volume one (only) of two, being Mr. Jay’s discussion of the history of the Blow Book, issued in conjunction with a functional prop, the pair originally sold in a decorated folding box. One of 300 copies. Illustrated, including tipped-in color images. 4to. Wraps scuffed else very good. SIGNED by Vija Cemins, Jane Hammond, Glenn Ligon, Justen Ladda, Philip Taaffe, William Wegman, and initialed by Ricky Jay; and additionally INSCRIBED AND SIGNED on the half-title page by Jay. With the publisher’s prospectus, Mr. Jay’s folding business card, and an ANS on Jay’s notepaper laid in.
This volume was presented to the curator of the Harry Price Library, Alan Wesencraft, by Mr. Jay. The laid-in note states, “Enclosed is the text volume of the history of Blow Books I did for the Whitney Museum. They sold the complete book in $1,200 and $3500 versions so I couldn’t, alas, send the complete set.”