Servais Leroy: The Great Decapitation Mystery

One of the most innovative magicians of his time, Servias Le Roy (Belgium 1865-1953) is credited for inventing the classic levitation illusion, Asrah the Floating Princess, which is still performed today. His best known performances were with his wife, Mary Ford, who performed under the stage name Talma, and a buffoon character that went by the name Leon Bosco. While Talma and Le Roy remained the same throughout the performances, Bosco was played by at least nine different performers. Le Roy was also known for creating such illusions as Where do the Ducks go?, Modern Cabinet, Costume Trunk, and Palaquin.

A half sheet, color lithograph illustrates Le Roy holding a tray aloft in one hand where Bosco’s head resides. A red devil is tied up in the background signifying the Le Roys’ command over the supernatural.