LYLE, Cecil (1899 - 1955). Vanishing Gramophone Statutory Declaration. 1917. Typed document stating that Lyle is the "inventor and the producer" of the Vanishing Gramophone effect, and that it was first exhibited by him on Feb. 24, 1913 and that "nobody is at liberty to perform it except by license from me." One folded 4to sheet with a second engraved document affixed inside by a red ribbon bearing the seal and stamp of the US Consulate General acknowledging Lyle's statement. SIGNED by Lyle on the first leaf, and notarized and signed, and bearing a registry stamp and embossed red seal. Soiling, splitting, chipping, but intact and complete. Provenance: Collection of Beatrice Houdini, passed to the consignor by descent.