Frise-Poulet. Circa 1875. Bronze desk set in the shape of a conjurer performing Cups and Balls on a draped, folding table. The magician wears a gibiciere, and is surrounded by a trunk, horn, and drum; he holds a ball in one hand and a wand in the other. The conjurer?s hat lifts to form an inkwell or hold a pen, the trumpet forms a seal, and the trunk opens to accommodate stamps. When depressed, the small figure on top of the center cup rings a bell. Overall height of 8?. Scalloped edges with brass cast ornaments and accents; a more elaborate and finely finished model than other examples. Formerly the property of magician and scholar Bob Read.