Few people under 40 will be aware of this trick which was commonly found in early 20th century magic sets. For me, it is a fond memory of the 1950s when, as a kid, I helped fill Davenports’ magic sets. In those days they were sold under the trade name Maskelyne’s Mysteries, or even under the name of the retailer such as Gamages or Hamleys.
Phil Treece explores the reasons why this excellent little trick, once so popular, has been consigned to obscurity.
This is a must read for anyone who has an interest in the trade of selling novelties and magic. Philip explains how an area in London became a hub for their wholesale supply and how the business had to adapt in the light of historic events.
If you were interested in sourcing jokes, fun articles, catches, illusions and conjuring tricks, this was the place to go.
Philip Treece is a magic historian, publisher and bookseller. His research warrants a wide audience and I was therefore very pleased when he agreed to have some of his blog articles published on the Davenport Collection website. The magician Ernest Sewell has been of particular interest to him.
Ernest Sewell had quite an impact on the British magic scene, not least through his very popular magic sets aimed at children. Philip’s article covers this important aspect of Sewell’s career.