Arcana:

(KAROS, THE GREAT). Karos, The Great. New York. ND (circa 1930s).: Wardley Printing. Edition Not Stated - Presumed First. 4to. Pictorial Wrappers. Theatrical Program. Fair.. One 10 x 15" sheet printed offset recto and verso folded neatly in half to make 10 x 7 ½", 4pp, 5 b&w illustrations. In a protective clear acetate dustwrapper. This is a slender four page vintage souvenir program for the noted early twentieth Century human oddities "The Great Karos - Albert and Alberta", who describe themselves as siblings born in France to the same mother - each with differing hermaphroditic traits. Alberta, the elder of the two - and whose name is actually is thought to be Karas - is pictured as a man on his right side, a woman on her left, and claims to dress as both. The younger Albert, despite his genitalia and developed breasts which are quite prominently pictured here "does not care for anything feminine", and is "an ardent enthusiast of male activities and sports". Alberta had previously toured sideshows and on Vaudeville's Loew's circuit, while the program declares for Albert "this is positively my first public appearance anywhere. We are willing to invite Doctors for a private interview". Despite the offer, prevailing present day thought allows that there was likely a modicum of trickery and transvestitism to the brothers' act. A serviceable yet well-preserved example of this exceedingly uncommon and curious document that has been folded in sixths and subsequently flattened showing moderate wear, handling, and soiling. It has been priced accordingly. PLEASE NOTE: Additional shipping costs are required for this item beyond our standard rates due to its value - we will inform you of the applicable amount at time of purchase. Inventory Number: 024820