Chinese Block and Frame
Vintage Hand-Painted Magic Apparatus | Matching Period Gamages Advertisement
A charming vintage example of the classic Chinese Block and Frame, complete with its original hand-painted finish and wonderful period character.
This example closely resembles the version illustrated in the accompanying Gamages advertisement shown in the photographs, making it a particularly appealing piece for collectors of early magical apparatus.
The effect is a classic of magic. A solid wooden block and frame are threaded onto a ribbon under seemingly impossible conditions. Despite the ribbon clearly passing through both block and frame, the performer is able to remove the block in a most baffling manner before everything may be shown separately.
As the period advertising proudly states, it is an effect that has "withstood the test of time," and it remains an attractive example of the ingenuity found in early twentieth-century magic apparatus.
Included
•Chinese Block and Frame apparatus
•Wooden block
•Wooden frame
Condition
A genuine vintage example showing expected age-related wear and signs of use.
The original hand-painted decoration remains present and displays the attractive patina that collectors often look for in period apparatus. There are marks, paint loss and general wear consistent with age, all of which add to its authenticity and character.
Please study all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.
Important Notes
Original instructions and ribbon are not included.
The apparatus is sold as a collectible item of vintage magic and appears complete as shown.
One photograph shows a period Gamages advertisement for identification and historical reference only. The advertisement itself is not included in the sale but I can supply a copy if requested.
Historical Interest
Pieces of apparatus such as this represent a fascinating period in British magic when colourful hand-painted props were supplied through the great dealer catalogues of the day. Surviving examples are becoming increasingly difficult to find, particularly when retaining their original painted finish.
An attractive and honest survivor from the golden age of magic dealers, equally suitable for collection, display or performance.
Please study all photographs carefully before purchase.
Packed carefully using recycled materials wherever possible.
International buyers welcome via eBay's Global Shipping Programme.
Thanks for looking,
Goldie