BEN ALI BEY (Max Auzinger, 1839 – 1928). Cabinet Card Portrait of Ben Ali Bey. Wetzlar, Germany: Max Spalke, ca. 1890. Half-length matte-finish portrait of the man credited with “discovering” and refining Black Art. He looks directly at the camera, resplendent in the elaborate “oriental” costume and conical hat which he appeared in on stage. 6 ½ x 4 ¼” in cabinet card format on photographer’s gilt-stamped mount, with scuffing and wear to verso. The first portrait of Bey we have encountered.