The Magic Collection of Ray Goulet

Gas Mask to Gas Bag. London: Davenports, ca. 1944. A magician’s World War II-era comedy gag, in which a faux gas mask visibly changes into a “little bust of Hitler,” according to the manufacturer’s description. Finely made from silk, plastic, wire, and papier mache. Hand painted. Hallmarked with the “Demon Series” label on rear of head. 10 ¼” high. Rare. As the company-issued advertising copy for this topical WWII sight gag states, “Personal feelings in the background, readers. We cannot speak too highly of this topical entrance. The mask is a good imitation, the bust has a striking resemblance to the genuine article, and just how it all works? Well, “Careless talk may give away secrets.” It’s sure – it’s swift – it's blitzkrieg.”