Walter Sheppard Transformation Cage

Also Known As “Doves to Rabbit Cage”

Table Top Stage Size

The Walter Sheppard Transformation Cage is a highly collectible, vintage piece of livestock illusion magic apparatus manufactured by craftsman Walter Sheppard in Vandalia, Ohio, during the 1990s. It is used by stage magicians to perform a classic “livestock transformation” effect. 

SPECIAL LAUNCH FLASH SALE Thru 6/19/2026

EFFECT

During a performance, the magician places doves into a slatted cage and covers it entirely with a cloth. A moment later, the cloth is whisked away to reveal that the doves have completely transformed into rabbits. The illusion is particularly effective because the cage is shown clearly on all sides before and after the transformation.

DETAILS

This 1990’s Walter Sheppard Cage is used, has seen performances, and yet is still in very collectible working condition. 

Includes the cage, a beautiful 36″ foulard; sorry, no instructions. Although this is a table top version and no base is included, as shown in the picture showing the underneath of the cage, this is designed to match one of Walt Sheppard’s many table stand designs.

As expected from a Walt Sheppard creation, this cage is extremely well made. This transformation cage has two manual release levelers; one in the front of the cage to lower the floor base where the Doves would be placed, and one in the rear to complete the transformation and appearance of the rabbit(s). 

Cage measures roughly 14.5″ square; height width, and depth. Load space measures 4″ in depth, enough for two small rabbits. 

If you are aware of Walter Sheppard and his incredible craftmanship, these don’t come up for sale often, grab it while you can!

SHIPPING

This apparatus will be carefully packaged and shipped fully insured (if using UPS) with a signature required to ensure safe delivery to your location. 

DEMONSTRATION

Here is magician John Measner performing the larger stage version of the Walter Sheppard Transformation Cage in his Magic Show.

Browse Additional Rare & Vintage Magic within our Magic Trick Shop

Condition Disclosure for Rare & Vintage Collectible Magic Apparatus

PHOTOS

Please review all listing photos carefully, as they are an important part of the item description. The photos are intended to show the overall visual condition of the apparatus, including possible imperfections, paint quality, decals if applicable, shelf wear, performance wear, and age-related characteristics.

LABELS

MagicTrickCollection.com does not rely on broad condition labels such as “good,” “very good,” “excellent,” or “mint” for vintage and antique magic effects. These terms can be subjective and may mean different things to different collectors. Instead, we believe clear photos from multiple angles provide the most accurate way to evaluate condition without revealing the working secrets of the effect.

OLD VERSUS NEW

Items listed under Rare & Vintage Collectible Magic may range from 10 to 100 years old or more. These are not new magic props. They may show signs of age, handling, storage, repairs, fragility, paint loss, decal wear, or prior performance use.

If your intent is to perform with the item, please understand that some vintage apparatus may require careful handling, adjustment, and practice. This disclosure is provided to help ensure buyers understand they are purchasing a vintage collectible magic item with age, history, and character—not a newly manufactured prop.