Summer Magic Auction

The Summer Magic Auction by Potter & Potter Auctions is a delightfully diverse collection of magic ephemera, antiques, and other collectible items. For magicians and their acts, there is a three-color window card produced for Houdini’s final tour, among the many posters and promotional materials. Harry Houdini was a Hungarian-born, American illusionist and stunt performer, noted in part for his sensational escape acts. Houdini performed his “Master Mystifier” show in three parts: magic, escapes, and spiritualism exposés. This uncommon window card includes a printer’s penciled notes in the upper margin denoting prices for large orders. 

Another of the collectible Houdini items is an actual magic prop owned by Houdini himself. The “Production Birdcage and Growth of Flowers Table” is made up of two matchings, turned aluminum tables with electric motors and lighted bases. It comes with a black drape and an elaborately hand-painted metal cylinder with a Chinese motif. The birdcage begins as a cylinder sitting on top of the stand and appears to be empty, but, from which flowers appear. Though there are aspects of the prop that are not entirely functional, this remains a fine piece that could be repaired or modified and has the added mystique of having been owned by the great Houdini. 

Magic memorabilia collectors are sure to be interested in the Massive Accumulation of Approximately 600 Photographs, some of which are signed. This gathering of images is comprised of studio publicity photos, performance pictures, and candid snapshots of mostly American magicians. Some of them depict magic shops, groups at conventions, or instructions outlining the process of various tricks. Among the pictured performers are Ron Wilson, Jimmy Trimble, Mark Wilson, Sid Lorraine, Jody Baran, the Maginnis, and hundreds more. View all lots and register to bid at Potter & Potter.