This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/24/2024
Nest of Boxes. British, ca. 1880. A borrowed ring, watch, or coin vanishes from the performer’s hands, only to reappear in the smallest in a nest of seven locked hardwood boxes. An audience volunteer unlocks the boxes himself. Outer box crafted from burled wood, the inner boxes plain. With the original key. Outer box dimensions 7 ¼ x 6 ½ x 5 ¼”. Front panel of outer box chipped and marred, but very good overall.A handwritten sign by Dick Ritson (Wu Ling) accompanying the boxes states they were manufactured and used by Professor Norris “of Crystal Palace Fame.” He was a British conjurer who, in his later years, constructed apparatus for Hamley’s and Joseph Bland. In his performing days he wore a long flowing robe and conical hat in the style of an antiquated wizard. When interviewed, Norris related that the costume was a practical matter, as he could slip it over his everyday clothes instead of changing his attire entirely before giving a show.