Chang in person - "A trip to Hades" (5463016465)

1939, Lithograph, 380 x 252 mm, Ephemera Collection, Alexander Turnbull Library, Reference: Eph-C-CABOT-Magic-1939-01
In 1926 Cabot set himself up as a theatrical agent in Wellington, and rented hoardings to advertise picture shows, circus and variety entertainment. His association with circuses continued but the focus of his poster collection broadened to include carnivals, fairs and sideshows, magic shows, visiting variety groups and singers. These visitors appreciated the energy and professionalism that he applied to the job of pre-publicity agent.
This poster is a wonderful example of the rich colour of posters in the 1930s, and uses the technique of lighting the face from below, to convey the thrill and drama of a magic show, and suggest a dark mystery. Two other magician posters in the collection also use this lighting technique. Reviews of the shows were enthusiastic about Chang’s marvellous sleight of hand with bowls of water and bowls of sand, but do not reflect the intimidating thrall of this poster.

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