I found an old repro of a painting that may have a table hopper in action. It's a tavern scene with 3 patrons crowding around a small round table. A waiter is standing near with one closed fist on the table and the other closed fist raised. One patron is watching the raised fist the other two the tabled fist. There is what looks like a single crumpled ball of paper on the table. But this ball is closer to the patrons stein of ale than the waiters fist. Any one familiar with the painting who can validate? As soon as my wife finds the patch cord I'll post a photo. It's by D. Teniers 1582-1649.

Rick Bloom

Cool, pleasse post a pic. I can't find many example of Teniers the Elders work anywhere on the web. I'd like to check it out.

Will post pic very soon.

Find the pickpocket in action too.

Click here to view/download attached file.

You can find older picture of table hopper... Havec a look at the picture from "Jérôme Bosch", you will find a cups and balls performer picture. Bosch (1450? - 1516)

I wouldn't describe Bosch's street performer as a "table hopper", at least not as depicted, since he isn't performing in a restaurant setting, but in the open air. Incidentally, in December an even earlier painting than the Bosch (by several decades) apparently depicting a street conjurer was discovered and purchased at auction in London. The February MAGIC has a report and image of it.