The Great Nicola Promotional Brochure. From the Library of Chet Karkut. ca. 1920s–30s.
Illustrated promotional brochure for The Great Nicola, presenting his touring stage spectacle as “The Wonder Show of the Universe.” This example comes from the library of noted magic historian and collector Chet Karkut (1908–1987), a founding figure in New England magic collecting whose influence was later recognized through the dedication of Ray Goulet’s Mini Museum of Magic.
The six-page brochure showcases many of the illusions, escapes, and production numbers featured in Nicola’s elaborate full-evening presentation, including The Living Pin Cushion, The Man Without a Middle, The Astral Bride, Egyptian-themed illusion sequences, comedy interludes, and his celebrated escape act. Profusely illustrated throughout with performance photographs, scenic views, costume designs, and promotional artwork, it offers a detailed glimpse into one of the most ambitious touring magic productions of its era.
Karkut was a close friend and contemporary of figures including Al Flosso, Jack Chanin, Walter B. Gibson, and Joseph Dunninger. A specialist in the work of Theodore DeLand, he served as guest of honor at the Fifth Magic Collectors’ Weekend in 1974 and was a founding member of the Frederick Eugene Powell IBM Ring 59, as well as a longtime member of numerous magic collecting organizations.
Original printed self-wrappers. Six pages. Measures 12 × 9”. Library label of Chet Karkut affixed to the lower margin of the front cover. Light toning and wear consistent with age and handling, with a few minor creases. Very good condition overall.
A scarce and visually impressive piece of magician-issued advertising, further enhanced by its provenance to one of the most respected collectors in New England magic history.
The Great Nicola Promotional Brochure. From the Library of Chet Karkut. ca. 1920s–30s.
Illustrated promotional brochure for The Great Nicola, presenting his touring stage spectacle as “The Wonder Show of the Universe.” This example comes from the library of noted magic historian and collector Chet Karkut (1908–1987), a founding figure in New England magic collecting whose influence was later recognized through the dedication of Ray Goulet’s Mini Museum of Magic.
The six-page brochure showcases many of the illusions, escapes, and production numbers featured in Nicola’s elaborate full-evening presentation, including The Living Pin Cushion, The Man Without a Middle, The Astral Bride, Egyptian-themed illusion sequences, comedy interludes, and his celebrated escape act. Profusely illustrated throughout with performance photographs, scenic views, costume designs, and promotional artwork, it offers a detailed glimpse into one of the most ambitious touring magic productions of its era.
Karkut was a close friend and contemporary of figures including Al Flosso, Jack Chanin, Walter B. Gibson, and Joseph Dunninger. A specialist in the work of Theodore DeLand, he served as guest of honor at the Fifth Magic Collectors’ Weekend in 1974 and was a founding member of the Frederick Eugene Powell IBM Ring 59, as well as a longtime member of numerous magic collecting organizations.
Original printed self-wrappers. Six pages. Measures 12 × 9”. Library label of Chet Karkut affixed to the lower margin of the front cover. Light toning and wear consistent with age and handling, with a few minor creases. Very good condition overall.
A scarce and visually impressive piece of magician-issued advertising, further enhanced by its provenance to one of the most respected collectors in New England magic history.
