This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/17/2019
Okito (Theo Bamberg). Okito TLS to Joe Ovette Regarding his Mat Trick. Dated December 12, 1918. Okito writes regarding his famous mat trick, saying, “I have no time at present to build the mat load for you… it is … probable I will build one for one fellow in Australia….” On unusual printed folder-type letterhead decrying Okito’s performances for the Queen of Holland and bearing his New York address of the Bamberg Magic & Novelty Co. at 1193 Broadway. Red rubber stamp signature of Okito. Very good. The Mat Trick was the finale to Okito’s show for years, though it becomes clear though this letter that he did manufacture the trick to order for other magicians. In effect, a giant rattan mat was shown free from trickery, made in to a large cylinder, and hoisted in to the flies. From inside Okito then produced a veritable garden of flowers, a quantity of large silk shawls, and what appeared to be a flock of live ducks. The production filled the stage and always brought a rousing ovation and made for a fitting close to Okito’s show.