This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/29/2022
PHOENIX TARGET AND CAGE. Hamburg: Carl Willmann, ca. 1915. A live canary loaded in the end of a special pistol is shot across the stage at a large black target. At the pull of the trigger, the target visibly and noisily transforms into a substantial domed metal cage with the canary, very much alive, flying about inside. Heavy nickel-plated brass cage, finely built. Spring-roller mechanism intact; working. 11 x 10 x 14”. Shows wear from use. See Salon de Magie, page 354. A trick popular with David Devant, his routine using the apparatus is described in great detail in the classic textbook he co-authored with Nevil Maskelyne, Our Magic (1911).