Houdiniana & Magic Memorabilia

The Fantastic Orange Tree Automaton. Los Angeles: John Gaughan and Associates, ca. 1989. Based on the famous nineteenth century effect by Robert-Houdin, this magical automaton was featured on the Paul Daniels Magic Show. A borrowed ring vanishes beneath a handkerchief. The audience, now focused on the magician’s table, takes notice of a small tree reposing in a fancy square hardwood planter. On the command of the performer, orange blossoms begin to grow amongst the foliage, which then visibly develop into real oranges. After the final orange has grown – at the apex of the tree -- it splits open to release a pair of mechanical butterflies. The winged insects flutter around the tree carrying a white kerchief. Suspended between it is the missing borrowed ring. Accompanied by manufacturer’s booklet tracing the history of the effect. Height 42”. Minor surface wear, dust, and signs of use, but very good overall. One of only a handful of these props manufactured by Gaughan.