This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/9/2023
DEVANT, David (David Wighton, 1868 – 1941). Celluloid Cards Owned by David Devant. Newark: Whitehead & Hoag, ca. 1925. Pack of 52 bridge-size cards formerly owned by the greatest British conjurer of the Edwardian era, David Devant. Usual wear and rubbing; good. Hochman O5a. Uncommon. Accompanied by an ANS from Claude Chandler stating, “These celluloid playing cards were given to me by Woodhouse-Pitman. He said they were given to him by David Devant. Any card held up to the light can be read from the back. C.C.” Whitehead & Hoag was the leading American manufacturer of advertising and political buttons and novelties in the early 20th century. This pack was frequently issued by the firm with advertising on the backs, or on the joker (not present).
Chandler, a finished and professional magician in his own right, was not only friendly with Devant, but stood in for him on stage, presenting the illusions Devant made famous.