Dai Vernon hand-cut silhouette dated 1930 mounted on paper, size approximately 6" x 4", condition good with some yellowing to paper, and darker yellowing around the perimeter, plus a few spots. This is exceptionally rare, from the man who is considered the Father of Close-up magic. The signature and date are drawn in beautiful cursive text. The silhouette shows a woman and her left-side profile, with interesting details on her jacket, and what appears to be a flower on her lapel. This silhouette is clean. You can even see her eyelashes!
I know what you're thinking... This is darn expensive. I fully agree. You can probably find one cheaper. If so, I recommend buying it, before I find it. This will only go up in value. I remember years ago, when I listed a Vernon silhouette at half this price, and someone chided me saying that no silhouette artist sells for that much. They were wrong. Maybe you might even think of sending me an offer to pay less. Let me save you the time and state that I highly value this relic, and I won't entertain any best offers. My price is set in stone. I know the value of Vernon in the world of magic, and I know his silhouettes are like holy grails among collectors. I've owned quite a few over the years, and I deeply regret selling each and every one. I don't mind if this one doesn't sell. It's fun to own! It's fun to imagine what life must have been like 95 years ago, when one of the world's greatest magicians was cutting silhouettes for tourists just to scrape by for a living. I had a chance to meet Vernon twice inside the Magic Castle, and it was incredible. He was a living, breathing human who forever changed the world of magic. The man who fooled Houdini! And he was a kind person, too.
I bought this in a Potter & Potter Auction, so the authenticity is unquestionable. I paid a lot, too, so I'm not making much money here. Especially when you add buyer's premium and shipping. It's more about the history. If you want to own a piece of this history, now is your chance.
This comes from my personal collection. My name is
Magician Michael Johnson, one of the top Magicians in San Diego County.
I am a Curious Magician. I enjoy collecting magic memorabilia; it
inspires me in my career. I've been a Magician most of my life. I
wrote a book titled "Playing Cards Autographed By Magicians: A Collector's
Guide" that is available on Amazon. Over the years, I have
accumulated one of the largest collections of contemporary magic collectibles
and posters in the world. Now I'm selling off my collection to finance
new adventures. Maybe you'll find something you like? There's
nothing like good magic memorabilia to stimulate the imagination.
If you want to become a Magician, I recommend joining a good magic club. I've been a member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians and a Magician member of the Academy of Magical Arts more than 25 years. Each club has advantages. You can have a lot of fun in the magical arts!
Thanks for taking a moment to read my listing. Have a great day. Be safe! Be happy!