One leaf from a 24-page scrapbook compiled c.1850 titled Folio of Etchings, Drawings, and Engravings of Remarkable Characters and Freaks, from the Ricky Jay collection, estimate $8000-12,000 at Potter & Potter.
Some of the most valuable pieces from a massive collection of ephemera related to magic, circus acts and ‘freak’ show attractions were sold by Sotheby’s in 2021.
Pictured here is one leaf from a 24-page scrapbook compiled c.1850 titled Folio of Etchings, Drawings, and Engravings of Remarkable Characters and Freaks. Several of the images relate to the ‘little man of Nuremberg’ Matthew Buchinger (1674-1740) including an engraved portrait of the performer in an elaborate coat and three-pointed hat that is inscribed and signed in mirror writing. Estimate $8000-12,000.
Taken with nearly 700 lots at Sotheby’s sale, Jay’s renowned collection of books, pamphlets, posters, broadsides, handbills, manuscripts, prints, represents the most important collection of magic collectables and ephemera to ever appear at auction.
