Modern Magic Masters
Sat, Aug 15, 2026 11:00AM EDT
Lot 100
MASKELYNE, J.N. (1839 - 1917). Photograph of Maskelyne and the Automaton Zoe.
Estimate: $1,000 - $2,000
Sold for
$1,560
Sold Price includes BP
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $5 |
| $30 | $10 |
| $100 | $25 |
| $500 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $200 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $10,000 |
MASKELYNE, J.N. (1839 - 1917). Photograph of Maskelyne and the Automaton Zoe. London: London Seteroscopic Co., ca. 1877. Full-length image shows the great British magician and inventor - and proprietor of Egyptian Hall - with his writing and drawing automaton, Zoe, on a pedestal beside him. Cabinet card format on printed mount, 6 1/2 x 4 1/4". SCARCE.
Zoe would draw portraits or duplicate handwriting as requested by her maker or the audience. Like Psycho, Maskelyne's more famous card-playing android, Zoe was not a true automaton, but rather a conjuror's trick - an elaborate pantograph disguised by the figure and plinth, operated by an unseen assistant.
Condition
Minor foxing, one corner bumped.
Available payment options
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