3-053-252 - The London Archives (City of London)/Heritage Images

Messrs. Maskelyne & Cook; Two "Gay Deceivers", late 19th century. John Nevil Maskelyne and George Alfred Cooke were among the best known Victorian illusionists and many of their acts are still used by modern-day magicians. The old-fashioned usage of the word 'gay' here means someone who is fun to be with because they are lively and cheerful.