Magicana: Featuring the Collection of Peter Hackhofer

SALENTIN, Hubert (German, 1822 – 1910). Magic Trick with a Little Bird (Der Zaubertrick mit dem Vöglein). 1855. Oil on canvas depicts a well-dressed conjurer producing a small bird from underneath a cover held in his hand; a small group of astonished spectators bear witness to the feat while gathered around a table in a tavern. A magic wand is gripped in the magician’s free hand, and on the stool beside the table are other tools of the mountebank’s trade including a playing cards, cups, a pistol, and a small cage for the bird. Detailed gilt wooden frame (minor chips and rubbing). Initialed and dated by the artist in the lower right. Even craquelure, but very good condition overall.