[HERRMANN] Hoffman House Hanging Paper Sign. New York: The Hilson Company, ca. 1890. Lithographed window card or hanging store sign with a grommet in the upper margin. Five men stroll down the street smoking a Hoffman House Bouquet Cigar. The man second from the left is Alexander Herrmann, the famous magician. 9 1/4 x 16". A RARE advertisement for this popular cigar brand made in a small torpedo-like shape. 

So widespread was Herrmann's fame and so recognizable was his mephistophelean visage that even popular products like Hoffman House Cigars used the magician's likeness to advertise its products. (Herrmann was also an inveterate cigar smoker.) Here he is seen in evening dress along with other well-heeled gentleman of the late Victorian era. 

Slight bowing. Chipping and short tears in margins.