Otis Lithograph Company - USA -Thurston magician advertising poster - 1930‹erne

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It is worthwhile and recommended to read through the entire description below.
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Bought in the 80s has been behind a glass since then
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The poster is a vintage advertisement for Thurston, a famous magician known as "The Great Magician." This particular poster showcases the magician performing an act that appears to involve spirits or supernatural elements, a common theme in early 20th-century magic shows. The poster's text asks, "Do the spirits come back?" and prominently displays "Thurston The Great Magician" along with the tagline "The Wonder Show of the Universe." The artwork features Thurston holding a skull with ghostly figures and devils swirling around him, creating a mysterious and eerie atmosphere.

This type of poster was designed to draw in crowds for live magic shows, which were extremely popular during the early 1900s. The imagery evokes curiosity and intrigue, playing on themes of spiritualism and the supernatural, both of which were of great public interest during this period.

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The poster was designed by Otis Lithograph Company, a prominent American lithography firm known for producing colorful and detailed posters for various entertainment forms, including theater, circuses, and magic shows.

Founded in the late 19th century, Otis Lithograph Company played a crucial role in the development of advertising art, particularly for the entertainment industry. The company was known for its vibrant use of color, attention to detail, and the ability to capture the essence of the subject matter in a way that was both appealing and persuasive to audiences.

Otis Lithograph's work for magicians like Thurston was part of a broader trend during the Golden Age of Magic (late 19th to early 20th century), where posters were not just promotional materials but also works of art. These posters were designed to be eye-catching, often using bold colors, dramatic compositions, and supernatural themes to attract attention.

The artistry and craftsmanship of Otis Lithograph Company’s work have made their posters highly collectible today. They reflect a time when magic and theater were among the most popular forms of entertainment, and they provide a window into the visual culture of that era.

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American poster art USA
## The Evolution and Impact of Poster Art in the USA

Poster art in the United States has a rich and dynamic history, evolving from simple advertisements to powerful tools of communication, propaganda, and cultural expression. From the late 19th century to the present day, poster art has reflected and influenced American society in profound ways.

### Early Beginnings

The origins of American poster art can be traced back to the late 1800s, coinciding with the rise of lithography, which made mass production of colorful posters feasible. Early American posters were primarily commercial, advertising products, events, and entertainment such as circuses and vaudeville shows. Artists like Jules Chéret and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec in Europe heavily influenced American poster design, which embraced vibrant colors and dynamic compositions.

### The Golden Age of Posters

The early 20th century saw the emergence of what is often referred to as the Golden Age of American posters. This period was marked by an explosion of creativity and diversity in poster art, driven by advancements in printing technology and a growing consumer culture. Advertising posters became more sophisticated, utilizing bold graphics and captivating slogans to attract attention. Prominent artists like Edward Penfield and Maxfield Parrish set the standards for commercial art with their innovative designs.

### Posters in War and Politics

During both World Wars, posters played a crucial role in the American propaganda efforts. The government commissioned artists to create posters that encouraged enlistment, promoted war bonds, and boosted morale on the home front. Iconic images such as James Montgomery Flagg’s "Uncle Sam Wants You" and J. Howard Miller’s "We Can Do It!" featuring Rosie the Riveter became indelible symbols of American patriotism and unity.

Posters continued to serve political purposes beyond the world wars, notably during the Great Depression and the subsequent New Deal era. The Works Progress Administration (WPA) funded thousands of posters to promote public programs and cultural projects, employing a distinctive style that combined modernist influences with practical messaging.

### The Counterculture and Beyond

The 1960s and 70s witnessed a radical shift in poster art as it became a medium for countercultural movements. Psychedelic posters, characterized by their swirling patterns and vibrant colors, advertised rock concerts and festivals, capturing the spirit of the era. Artists like Wes Wilson and Victor Moscoso became synonymous with this style, which visually represented the music and ethos of the counterculture.

During the same period, political posters became prominent tools for activism, addressing issues such as civil rights, women's liberation, and opposition to the Vietnam War. These posters often featured bold, provocative imagery and slogans designed to inspire action and solidarity.

### Contemporary Poster Art

In the digital age, poster art has continued to thrive and adapt. While traditional printing methods are still cherished, digital tools have expanded the possibilities for design and distribution. Modern posters encompass a wide range of themes, from political activism and social justice to commercial advertising and entertainment. Street art and guerrilla marketing have further blurred the lines between posters as art and posters as messaging tools.

### Conclusion

Poster art in the United States is more than just a means of advertisement; it is a reflection of the nation's cultural, social, and political landscapes. From its commercial origins to its role in wartime propaganda, countercultural expression, and modern digital creativity, poster art has continually evolved, capturing the essence of each era. Its enduring impact lies in its ability to communicate powerful messages through visual simplicity and artistic innovation, making it a vital and vibrant aspect of American art and culture.

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Please note that our company was founded in 1994 and it is internationally trackable. Invoice is available upon request.

Our team consists of members with university degree of art, painting valuation experts and experienced art&antique dealers

Invest in valuable works of art and objects at prices much lower than those of galleries. The offerings of IKEA, KIKA, etc. are similar in price for prints, so it is worth purchasing something Vintage.


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