Michael Lehr Antiques
Live Auction

May Vernacular Photo History Auction

Wed, May 6, 2026 11:00AM EDT
Lot 489

RPPC Ventriloquist with Two Child Dummy Figures

Estimate: $100 - $200

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$100 $10
$200 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,500

Real photo postcard studio portrait depicting an adult male ventriloquist posed with two child dummy figures. The sitter wears a suit with vest and tie, seated and facing the camera, while holding one figure on his knee and positioning the other at his side. The photographic style and divided postcard back indicate an early 20th century date. No photographer’s imprint is visible.

 

The dummy on the left has tousled hair, wide painted eyes, and an open mouth expression, dressed in a light blouse and overalls. The second figure, posed to the right, wears a patterned dress with apron and bonnet, with a more composed facial expression and closed mouth. The man’s hands are clearly visible controlling both figures, reinforcing the staged studio setting.

 

The reverse shows a divided back with standard postcard layout lines and no written message or address. A small printed number “21659” appears in the lower right corner. Pencil notation reading “LOCBAZ” and a date “6/05/15” are present along the left edge. No additional printed text is visible.

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