This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/26/2024
HARTZ, Joseph Michael (1836 – 1903). Table Mat from Hartz’s Devil of a Hat Production. Circa 1880s. Heavily embossed thick paper table mat from Hartz’s famous routine in which a seemingly endless quantity of solid objects were produced from a borrowed hat. Diameter 6 5/8”. Cracked chipped, and worn, but intact. A label affixed to the rear of the mat bears a holograph note in the hand of George Johnson, editor and publisher of The Magic Wand, which states: “This mat is one of some half-dozen used by Hartz in his Devil of a hat act. The mats were used to support lighted lanterns. G.J.” Beneath the note in another hand is the statement, “Given to Bayard Grimshaw by George Johnson.”