This is a vintage black and white engraving depicting a stage trick involving a decapitation. The scene takes place within a stone castle or dungeon. A person is lying horizontally inside a long, narrow wooden box, seemingly restrained. Their head has been detached and is floating in the air, eyes wide with shock. Standing beside the box is a demonic figure with horns, a pointed beard, and a menacing expression. The demon is holding a large axe, suggesting the method of the 'decapitation'. The background shows a stone wall with a doorway and a rough stone floor. The style is detailed and uses many lines to create shading and texture. The caption at the bottom reads 'A NOVEL STAGE TRICK—DECAPITATION'.