J.F. Burrows – Lightning Artist

This PDF offers insights into the art of rapid sketching. While not strictly magic, techniques like quick drawing, paper folding, hand shadows, and chapeaugraphy were commonly featured in historical magic performances. Many classic magic texts include sections on these related arts, making this publication appealing to contemporary readers and collectors alike.

One standout technique presented in this book is drawing with smoke.

Although the publication lacks a date, it likely originates from the late 1800s based on the photographs included. Another work by Burrows, which documents the performances of renowned magicians from 1860 to 1894, suggests this book falls within that timeframe. The content is a scan of the original material.

The program book is also noteworthy, though my copy is a modern, streamlined HTML version that may not attract collectors. It primarily serves to showcase the types of acts performed by the stars of that era, featuring only set lists without explanations.