Chicago Magic Lounge, more than just a place for entertainment, is a mini-museum that delves into the rich history of magical arts. Our collection of over fifty original stone lithographs dating back to the late 19th century is a unique educational resource. These posters, designed for magicians to promote their shows, are rare and beautiful examples of the early style of promoting live entertainment. 

Like all human endeavors, magic has challenging and sometimes awful aspects to its history. These include prejudice, bigotry, and exploitation. Some of the images found on the walls depict people or activities that are counter to the values of the Chicago Magic Lounge. However, we are committed to preserving this history and learning from it. Understanding the history and context of these images is crucial to creating a more just, equitable, and inclusive future.

Below is information about the posters and ephemera displayed at the Chicago Magic Lounge. They are listed alphabetically by the magician’s last name, based on their most well-known stage name.