Robert-Houdin Mystery Clock. Paris, ca. 1840s. Striking eight-day movement glass dial mystery clock. Ormolu-decorated bronze case supporting a gilded bezel surrounding the clear glass dial, at the center of which sits a single arrow-shaped hand. A “Second series" mystery clock; the timepiece runs and keeps time despite no apparent connection between the dial and the base. Clock chimes on the hour and half-hour. The case resting on a gilded wooden plush-covered base. Height 17 ¾". Runs and chimes but in need of service. With winding key. Lettering to glass dial well rubbed.
This clock was originally purchased by David Copperfield's at auction in Paris and was obtained by Dr. Dawes from Copperfield in trade for a rare Chung Ling Soo billboard lithograph which now hangs in the International Museum and Library of the Conjuring Arts in Las Vegas.