Early ventriloquist figure. Wood body with paper mache head. Some movable joints. American, late 19th century.

H 62 in.

Provenance: From the estate of Magician Samuel H. Briggs. 

Briggs was an American stage magician active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was one of many capable professional conjurers who helped popularize magic through lyceum circuits, theaters, and civic entertainments during an era when stage magic was a major form of public entertainment. Briggs specialized in sleight-of-hand and parlor magic, presenting programs that combined dexterous manipulation with larger illusion effects and humorous patter. Like many performers of his generation, he toured extensively, appearing in opera houses, town halls, and community venues throughout the United States.

Surface imperfections commensurate with age.