Multi-Estate Spring 2026 Auction
Lot 307:
Description
C-19343
c. 1894; Published by H. S. Smith and C. R. Graham – Historical Publishing Co., Philadelphia
Large-format illustrated portfolio titled The Magic City: A Portfolio of Original Photographic Views of the Great World’s Fair and Its Treasures of Art, Including a Graphic Representation of the Famous Midway Plaisance. Issued as part of the Historical Fine Art Series, Vol. I, No. II, dated March 26, 1894. The cover features elaborate period typography and an allegorical winged female figure holding a laurel wreath, with architectural vignettes referencing the Columbian Exposition. Interior pages include sepia-toned photographic plates of fair buildings and international pavilions, along with descriptive text and promotional content outlining the scope of the publication. Reverse and interior advertising pages detail subscription pricing and publication plans, noting over 300 grand views documenting the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.
Shows edge wear, corner creasing, and minor paper loss along the cover (notably at the upper margin). Interior pages exhibit light toning and gentle waviness consistent with age. Overall intact with strong legibility and clean photographic plates.
13.75” W x 11.25” H
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