Davenport’s Magic

From the Collection

Founded in 1898 by Lewis Davenport, Davenport’s Magic is widely regarded as the oldest family-owned magic shop in the world, a distinction recognized by Guinness World Records. From its earliest days, the shop became a gathering place for magicians, offering tricks, books, and apparatus to amateurs and professionals alike.

Over more than a century, Davenport’s served generations of performers and maintained close ties with many of the great names in magic, including Cardini, Robert Harbin, and Paul Daniels. Passed down through successive generations of the Davenport family, the shop remained both a trusted supplier and a social hub within the London magic community.

Bluff Watch Divination

Maroon Bakelite Demon Magic pocket watch divination, hallmarked with the Demon logo. Near fine condition.
The Demon Telegraph, August 1949

Issue No. 122 of the house magazine of L. Davenport & Co. of London. The cover features a portrait of French magician Servais Le Roy, identified as “One of the World’s Greatest Magicians,” within the magazine’s distinctive red-and-black theatrical design.
Nest of Boxes, ca. 1940s

A coin appears in the smallest box. Made out of Bakelite. The largest box bears the Demon head logo. Largest box measures 1.75” in diameter.
Early Elusive Rabbits, mid-20th century

Classic sucker effect in which two painted wooden rabbits repeatedly change places, building to a comedic climax. Lacquered finish with sliding covers and fitted bases.
Multiplying Pocket Watches, ca. 1930s

The magician mysteriously produces a number of pocket watches. Set of 10 pocket watches and gimmicked nest holder. Very good condition, uncommon.
Demon Clear Nest of Boxes, ca. 1970s

A vanished watch or ring mysteriously reappears in an acrylic box, securely locked inside two nested wooden boxes. This is a no-assistant model based on the classic Himber design.
Wrist Chopper, ca. 1980s

A classic guillotine illusion in which a fully visible blade slices cleanly through a carrot placed below—yet an arm inserted through the frame emerges completely unharmed. The blade and frame may be opened and examined, heightening the drama.
Cigarette Production Box, ca. 1940s

This clever hardwood box hides a spring-loaded mechanism that secretly delivers cigarettes into the magician’s hand as items are casually dropped inside. Appears empty—yet holds a full load. Measures 8” x 4” x 2.5”, solid construction, and deceptively brilliant. Hallmarked.
Lyle's Phantom Clock Dial, ca. [?]

The performer displays a large clear clock dial with a freely rotating hand. An audience member selects any hour, then spins the hand themselves. When it comes to rest, it stops at the chosen hour. The effect can be repeated with any selection.
Vanishing Handkerchief, ca. 1940s

Demon Series, item no. six. A silk handkerchief is show and slowly rubbed between the hands, it becomes smaller and smaller, and finally disappears.
Double Block Release, ca. [?]

Six colored blocks are examined and two are selected. All are secured inside a wooden chest with a rod. When the lid is opened, only the selected blocks fall free while the others remain locked in place.
Demon Wonder Box, ca. 1960s

Nickel plated box is shown empty and then a number of silks are produced from it. This was a very popular trick first marketed by Davenports in 1934. The inside of the box is stamped with Davenports demon head logo and the registered design # 791997.
The Davenport Book, 1963

Magic Circle Magic: A Tribute to the Memory of George Davenport and Lewis Davenport," edited by Will Dexter and with art by Ali Bongo, published by Harry Clarke in 1963, and featuring magic tricks and tributes from famous magicians, honoring the legendary Davenport brothers of The Magic Circle
Penetra-Spheres, ca. [?]

An exceptionally rare eight-ball variant of Hughes’ celebrated penetration effect. A freely selected and marked ball vanishes under cover and instantly appears inside a completely sealed glass—an elegant and baffling classic of close-up magic.
Davenport’s Centenary Gift Box, 1998

Commemorative presentation box issued for Davenport & Co.’s 100th anniversary, with contents relating to its first century, including the official weekend program and two trick matchboxes.
Davenport Cabinet, ca. 1875

A coin or small object is placed into the drawer and vanishes upon reopening. An unusual variation with a closed-bottom outer case. Hardwood construction with an ivory-style knob. Early example.