UCLA Hammer Museum, Los Angeles presents broadsides from the collection of Ricky Jay, running through November 25, 2007.
This exhibition features over 100 examples of fascinating printed ephemera known as broadsides, dating from the 1600s to the 1800s. They are drawn exclusively from the collection of Ricky Jay, the Los Angeles–based performer.
Considered one of the greatest sleight-of-hand artists working today, Jay is also a respected actor, a cultivated scholar, and a passionate collector. His collection constitutes one of the most unusual holdings of broadsides in the world. It includes rare pieces which mirror Ricky Jay's interests; many are unique survivals of their times.
The exhibition is arranged according to the different types of events advertised, including wise and extraordinary animals, limbless performers, improbable acts, notable magicians, and mechanical marvels.
Most of the works are included in Jay's book Extraordinary Exhibitions, which explores a mix of "sensational, scientific, satisfying, silly, and startling attractions." The show emphasizes remarkable entertainers and visual deceptions ranging from an armless dulcimer player and a singing mouse, to an equestrian bee-keeper and a mermaid. -- www.hammer.ucla.edu
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