Rare 19th century theater posters in Royka’s Oct. 1 auction
Sept. 26, 2005
LUNENBURG, Mass. – On Saturday, Oct. 1, Royka’s Auctioneers & Appraisers will conduct an auction featuring more than 100 late-19th century theater posters that were found in a client’s attic. Bidding in this auction will be possible from anywhere in the world, live via the Internet, through www.LiveAuctioneers.com.
“An incredible find was made by our client,” said Royka’s owner, Paul Royka. “The consignor found a large group of rolled up posters in the attic. While researching them, it was determined that most were for performances at the Worcester Theatre in Worcester, Massachusetts. It was like unrolling a time capsule of American history.” Some of the posters may be worth as much as $10,000 each.
The posters cover a range of theatrical performances dating from the end of the Civil War to just prior to the dawn of cinema, and depict iconic performers and their performances, including Buffalo Bill, Frank Mayo in Davy Crockett, Civil War plays, “colored” minstrels, Gilbert & Sullivan operas, burlesque shows, magic and circus shows. One poster for a Mark Twain play may be the only one in existence, since there were only 35 performances of the play. There is also a very rare Currier & Ives poster for a horse race at Narragansett Park, with a female jockey. The first 27 lots will consist of rare Western posters including several from Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, and other famous plays and actors such as Frank Chanfrau in The Arkansas Travelerand Annie Pixley.
More than 100 lots of posters will be offered as part I of Royka’s Fine Art & Antique Auction. Part II consists of Americana, featuring a tall Chippendale chest of drawers, folk art, including a fine pair of Indian andirons with original painted surface; art pottery featuring a large Marblehead vase decorated with wisteria; a large doll collection and more.
The auction begins at noon, Eastern Time. View the catalog online in its entirety and bid absentee or live during the sale at www.LiveAuctioneers.com.
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