THE HEAD DECAPITATED AND FLOATING IN THE AIR THREE YARDS FROM THE BODY.
This is a modification of “The Sphinx,” or “The Head of the Decapitated Speaking,” as it is called, of which The Magician’s Own Book contains a full explanation.
A hole is made in a large plane mirror, through which the actor puts his head. It is set at an angle so as to reflect the ceiling of the little chamber where the decapitation has occurred; hence the spectators believe they see it suspended in the air. The front corners and edge of the mirror are artfully masked by architectural ornaments, and the upper edge enters at the joining point of the ceiling and supposed wall.
