This captivating lot from a past auction features a full-length albumen photographic portrait of Herrmann Compars (1816-1887), a figure of historical interest. Presented in the cabinet card format popular in the late 19th century, this photograph offers a glimpse into the past and a connection to the world of magic and performance.
The cabinet card, mounted on card stock marked “A. Schalita” of Vienna, speaks to the photographic studios of the era and the location of Compars’ activities. Vienna, a vibrant cultural hub in the 1880s, provides a rich backdrop for understanding the context of this portrait. The inscription on the verso adds a layer of provenance and intrigue. It notes that this card was gifted to Alexander Haas, a Brazilian magician and writer on magic, by Ottokar Fischer, another notable magician and author on the subject. This connection to prominent figures in the magic community elevates the significance of the photograph.
Vintage cabinet card portrait of Herrmann Compars, a 19th-century magician, taken in Vienna by A. Schalita studio.
Herrmann Compars himself, though perhaps less widely known today than some of his contemporaries, was a practicing magician during a fascinating period in the history of illusion and entertainment. This photographic portrait captures him in a formal, full-length pose, typical of cabinet cards designed for display and collection. The albumen print process, known for its rich tonal range and detail, further enhances the visual appeal and historical value of this piece.
Offered as Lot 138 in Sale 2054, this Herrmann Compars photograph realized a price of $1,725, exceeding its estimated range of $350 – $500. This final price, inclusive of Buyer’s Premium, reflects the desirability of this unique item to collectors interested in magic history, vintage photography, and figures like Compars. This cabinet card serves not only as a portrait of Herrmann Compars but also as a tangible artifact connecting to a specific time, place, and community within the history of magic.
