Voice from the Great Beyond. Whispering Buddha. Los Angeles: F.G. Thayer, 1930s. Gesso over wood, painted in gilt, red, and blue, and studded with imitation gems. Questions asked of the Buddha are answered in a faint whisper by the figure, when the inquirer holds her ear to its mouth. The statue sits isolated on its own table, well away from other props, secret assistants, and the magician. Height 18". Chips to finish as expected, but very good overall. Rare. The effect utilized the technology first adapted to magic by David P. Abbott in his Talking Teakettle (see lot 173).