This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/17/2019
Ducrot, Frank (T. Francis Fritz). Frank Ducrot Levitation Photograph. Ballston Spa, NY: Wooley Studio, ca. 1910. Ducrot, clad in a long-striped robe and wearing a tight-fitting turban, extends his hands over the floating body of the assistant wrapped in dark cloth in front of him. At his feet on the rough wooden boards of the stage rest a lota bowl and two rice bowls. Embossed photographer’s mount, 7 x 9”. Slight residue on photo, else very good. Possibly taken during Ducrot’s early years as a Chautauqua and Lyceum performer, as the setting of the image appears very much like the rough tent-show environs he would have played in his early years as a performer. The Rice Bowls at his feet strike an interesting note, as Ducrot is reported to be the inventor of this popular trick in which rice heaped in one bowl first doubles in quantity, then changes in to water. After his retirement from the road, Ducrot went on to own and operate the Hornmann Magic Co. in New York City.