Houdiniana

HOUDINI, Harry (Erik Weisz, 1874 – 1926). Houdini’s Strait Jacket Packing Crate. Circa 1915. Rough wooden crate owned and used by Houdini for the transportation of his props and personal articles on two transatlantic voyages. One side panel features three paper labels related to the transportation and storage of the box, among them a luggage label bearing the name “Houdini” in large block capital letters, and a second indicating that Harry and Beatrice Houdini are passengers quartered in cabin #49 on one such transatlantic voyage the case accompanied them on. On the opposite side another paper label is also affixed. In addition, the crate bears a penciled notation IN HOUDINI’S HAND reading, “All Strait Jackets, Oct. 1920.” Accompanied by a custom-made wooden display stand with plexiglass barriers at the sides, used to protect the labels and handwriting on the short ends of the crate. Stored in the Houdini home for six decades, in 1985 this crate, along with other personal items from the residence were purchased by the former owner, several of which are being offered for sale in this auction. Crate dimensions 24 x 42 x 34”. Accompanied by a COA from Sidney Radner, a former owner of the trunk and a noted Houdini collector. A unique and remarkable relic from Houdini’s personal life and career with impeccable provenance. This crate was among the original Houdini memorabilia featured on the NBC Television special “Houdini: Unlocking His Secrets” hosted by Robert Ulrich, and was exhibited for years at the Magic and Movie Hall of Fame in Las Vegas. The notation in Houdini’s hand was perhaps made at a time when the magician was focusing more on his movie making career than theatrical endeavors.