Images(4)

Prop, Magician's

Object number2010.69.3

Date1940-1994

Mediumwood; cotton; paint; metal

Credit LineGift of Barry Mitnick

DescriptionRed wooden box with black and gold images of rabbits on top, front, back, and bottom. Top of box has door with latch; beneath the door and attached to top is a red cotton pouch. Two sides have cut holes boarded with metal rings. False bottom opens upon lifting. Inside walls painted black.Dimensions16 x 7.375 x 11.625 in. (40.6 x 18.7 x 29.5 cm)
Historical NotesRabbit box, part of a collection of performance pieces belonging to Aspinwall-based magician Harry Albacker (born April 1925, died March 1994). Harry toured the United States performing magic shows from the 1940s until his death. He was best known as a children's magician who specialized in performing with animals and for his signature turban and harem pants. He began performing in vaudeville houses in the Pittsburgh-area while still in high school, but it was not until after his service in WWII that he switched to children's shows. Because he performed for so long many people who enjoyed him as a child were able to hire him for their own children.

Previous owner Harry Albacker (1925 - 1994)

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