Artist/Maker McLoughlin Brothers (American, 1854 – 1921)

Chiromagica

ca. 1870

Place madeNew York, New York, United States, North America

Wood, glass, paper

Container (box): 2 x 11 3/4 x 11 3/4 in. (5.1 x 29.8 x 29.8 cm)

The Liman Collection

2000.488

McLoughlin Brothers' 1885 catalogue described Chiromagica as a "wonderful contrivance" based on "scientific principles" and noted that it affords "endless amusement for the family circle." The Magician's hand miraculously indicates the correct answers to questions posed by questions on the game cards.

DescriptionGame with three paper discs in a wooden box with sliding lid; on cover, illustration with figure of wizard in red robe and peaked cap, pointing to central design, with books, globe, rolled up papers, spyglass, and cat at his feet; central design consists of a circle hung behind wizard's head with pointing hand to right of circle, surrounded by billowing clouds; one paper disc pasted to glass case inside box; three sheets of printed paper with circles cut out of centers, with answers to the questions on the discs in circles bordering interior edge; lithographed: on the box cover: "CHIROMAGICA/ McLOUGHLIN BRO'S N.Y."

ClassificationsTOYS

Collections