A RARE ‘HARRY HOUDINI’ SUITCASE COMES TO AUCTION ON 20 JUNE
“WHAT THE EYE SEES, THE EAR HEARS, AND THE MIND BELIEVES”
This well-known quote belongs to the master of perception, Harry Houdini (1874-1926), who often reflected on the psychology of magic. It is the mind that holds the key to freedom, and children often make the most perceptive observers. He believed in audiences discovering his talent rather than advertising the specifics of it, taking an understated approach to his craft.
Born in Budapest, Hungary, Houdini’s family emigrated to the Unites States where he joined the circus, becoming a trapeze artist. His big break came with the turn of the century following his daring feats of escape from shackles, ropes and handcuffs. He regularly hosted live performances of freeing himself from locked containers – from milk containers to prison cells to escaping a straight jacket whilst suspended 23 meters above the ground.
Known for his extraordinary determination, discipline and physical fitness, Houdini carefully studied locks, restraints and human psychology, combining genuine skill with theatrical showmanship. Audiences admired his courage and confidence, along with his strong self-promotion abilities, making him one of history’s great illusionists who’s legacy carries forward to today.
A rare ‘Harry Houdini’ suitcase, the top monogramed with ‘H.H’, will be offered for sale by Dore & Rees at the forthcoming auction of Jewellery, Watches and Opulent Objects on 20 June at Wilton House at an estimate of £3,000 - £5,000. The case is accompanied by a letter from ‘The Magic Circle’, stating the case was a ‘gift from our friend Mr. Houdini’, and that it came from his chief assistant, Jim Collins, who worked as Houdini’s trusted chief assistant and mechanic from 1910 to until Houdini’s death in 1926. Collins was instrumental in the creation of many of Houdini’s most famous effects, including the Chinese Water Torture Cell.
FINE JEWELLERY, WATCHES & OPULENT OBJECTS
SATURDAY 20 JUNE
2:00PM
VIEWING
Fine Jewellery, Watches and selected Opulent Objects will be on view in advance at Dore & Rees Auction Salerooms in Frome
Monday 8 & Tuesday 9 June 10:00am to 4:00pm
Monday 15 & Tuesday 16 June 10:00am to 4:00pm
On view at Concours des Legends, Wilton House (Riding School), Salisbury
Friday 19 June 10:00am to 8:00pm
Saturday 20 June from 10:00am