This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/3/2018
Virgil (Virgil Harris Mulkey). The Great Virgil’s Disembodied Princess. Circa 1930. Blindfolded, Virgil’s assistant (and wife) Julie entered the upright cabinet into which he was locked. With doors closed, two large blades pierced the cabinet, at her neck and knees. The doors were then thrust open showing Julie’s head and legs intact, but her torso and arms had vanishes. The process was reversed and Julie stepped from the cabinet unharmed. Constructed by Virgil himself, and complete with the original blades, costume pieces, and gimmick made in Julie’s image. Accompanied by a vintage photograph of Virgil performing the illusion with the same piece of apparatus. Approx. 76 x 28 x 28”. Attractively decorated with Egyptian motif. Shows wear from professional use, but overall good working condition. Sold as-is. Originated by P.T. Selbit, who also devised the famous Sawing Through a Woman illusion, the Disembodied Princess has been a staple illusion since its genesis in the mid-1920s. This model is based on the improved Carl Owen design developed for Howard Thurston, which did not require the use of a trap door. In magician’s slang, the trick is sometimes called “no guts.” Third-party transportation required.