Collector’s Cabinet

Maker unknown, mid-20th century.

Gimmicked stemmed glass for the classic egg on fan style effect using a brandy snifter style glass. Crumpled paper placed in the bowl visibly becomes a real egg, which may be broken into the glass.

With original printed instructions. Glass intact; light wear to metal base. Very good condition. Uncommon.

Silent Mora (Louis McCord), 1956

A classic sympathetic-cord illusion in which the cords running through each bamboo stick mysteriously respond to one another— when one end is pulled, the other retracts, despite no visible connection. Hand-made and hand-painted by Silent Mora (Louis McCord), signed and dated in his hand (Sept. 21, 1956), and inscribed with the proverbs: “More men are drowned in the bowl than in the sea,” and “A man with a sour face should not open a shop.” Length 12 inches. Complete with original box, instructions, and supply of flaked graphite.

E.J. Moore, ca. [?]

An evocative effect inspired by ancient Egyptian mythology. The Phenix—sacred bird of legend—was said to appear every 500 years, immolating itself upon an altar before rising anew from the ashes, a symbol of immortality and resurrection (Funk & Wagnalls).

In performance, a marked strip of paper is placed upon a staff, burned, and instantly restored—quick as a flash. A poetic blend of myth and magic.

Provenance: Andrew Pinard collection

Ireland Magic, ca. 1930

A finely engineered mechanical stand designed to facilitate the production or vanish of up to six pocket watches in rapid succession. Constructed with a heavy nickel-plated base, lending both stability and an attractive gleam. An impressive display piece from the inventive Chicago firm of Laurie Ireland, known for its precision-built apparatus. Height 17 ¾”, width 12”.

Houdeen Posters, ca. [?]

Houdeen—stage name of Svenne Herman DeHolt (1890–1968)—enjoyed a remarkable career that spanned more than 50 years, enchanting audiences in schools, auditoriums, and community halls across the country. His passion for magic lived on through his son, Jack, who followed in his footsteps and toured with the popular Ken Griffin show. DeHolt’s enduring contributions to the art of magic were honored in New Tops and other leading magic journals, where his obituary paid tribute to a life devoted to wonder and illusion.

After Martinka & Co., ca. 1890

A selected card is placed into a finely crafted wooden box, its lid gently closed. Moments later, when reopened, the card has vanished—only to be replaced by a live bird. The missing card is then discovered in an unexpected location. Beautifully constructed from hardwood with rich ebonized accents, this piece embodies the wonder and elegance of 19th-century magic.

Flyto Cage. Ca. 1900.

An elegant example of turn-of-the-century magic apparatus, this Flyto Cage effect features a brass cage that vanishes beneath a handkerchief, only to reappear instantly—and in full view—within the open frame of a skeleton stand on the magician’s table. The reappearance requires no cover, allowing the audience to witness the impossibility without distraction.

Circa 1920s.

A clock, covered by a cloth, hangs from a metal stand where it rings audibly. The cloth is whisked away, the ringing stops, the clock has vanished.