A very historical item that may have been used by Melinda The Magician in her 1960's magic show in Las Vegas. There are very few professional female magicians, and Melinda the Magician was very succsessful here in the 1960's. We obtained this cape with other showgirl items from her shows, from the estate of her wardrobe mistress. Those other items are now on view at the Nevada State History Museum in Las Vegas, but we kept one or two items to sell at a later date, and that date is now.
This is a gorgeous antique cape that has black velvet rosettes that form a large collar, as well as the hem motif. Front and back of the cape look identical, as velvet hems the front flaps, and there is another velvet strip that goes down the back of the cape. Large old furrier type hooks secure the large collar in the front. The fabric of the cape is somewhat transparent, and I think it is an early nylon. All photos have been lightened significantly, so you can see details in the deep dark black fabric.
There is a wide band of silk crepe lining over the nylon, from the shoulder to the collar, and this is where you can see some tearing near the collar. However, this band could be removed, and left off, or replaced, and not effect the integrity or look of the piece. See last photo.
My wife wore this out once, and it was quite stunning to see on....it had a rather 20's look, with the heavy top shawl collar. Although Melinda was working in the casino's in the 60's, this cape appears to be much older, so she may have acquired it from an antique establishment, for her work on stage.
From Wikipedia: Melinda Saxe (born March 6, 1965) is a magician from Las Vegas, Nevada, best known for her television performances and Las Vegas stage shows in which she was billed as "The First Lady of Magic". She is often associated with the "Drill of Death" illusion, which was a signature trick developed for her by André Kole. Although derided by some critics as a stereotypical blonde who achieved success because of her looks, Saxe is also respected by many in the magic business as a highly professional and likeable performer.
Measurements"
Length 48"
Width at bottom of hem: 72"
Great item for a Magic collector!
This item is sold from a vintage boutique in Las Vegas, Nevada.
