This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/17/2023
Okito Checker Cabinet. New York: Okito (Tobias Bamberg, 1875-1963), [ca. 1911]. Club-size model of the prop, long considered the finest piece of apparatus manufactured by Okito, decorated in Chinese style, with checkers and tube. In performance, a stack of checkers and a glass full of rice or goldfish magically transpose locations, from one of three compartments in the cabinet to underneath the decorated tube beside the box. Hand-painted finish and decal work, with engraved brass maker’s plate to rear. 14 x 5 ¼ x 15” (to peak of roof). Unusual flared foot design. Wear and scratching to finish and decals, but sound in operation. Okito manufactured these cabinets in three sizes; this is the smallest and easiest to transport, hence the term “club size,” likely a reference to the preference of magicians playing “club dates,” i.e. local shows for small and medium-sized groups, preferred compact props over more elaborate and complicated stage-size props. This cabinet was formerly owned by Dr. Hugo Pulgarri, an Argentine magic collector who purchased many choice props from Fu Manchu (David Bamberg), Okito’s son and successor.