Houdini, Harry. (1874–1926) [Curtis, Tony. (1925–2010)]
Vintage Houdini Magic Trick - From the Estate of Tony Curtis
An interesting relic from the famed magician and escapologist. One of his actual used magic tricks, a Spirit Bell.National Magic Company, Chicago. Chrome-plated bell on skeleton stand, oversized glass tumbler and mechanical ringing device, housed in a custom-made carrying case, as issued. Fine condition. Black box with Houdini's ownership Ex-Libris plate affixed to the inside lid. 10 1/2 (overall height) by 9 by 5 inches. From the estate of actor Tony Curtis, who played Houdini in the 1953 biopic film. In fine condition, the bell and glass components possibly later pieces, replacing the original damaged components.
In the film, Tony Curtis gave one of his best performances as Harry Houdini, “the man of 10,000 tricks.” Starring opposite Janet Leigh ("Hollywood’s Most Exciting Young Lovers,” proclaims the film’s original trailer), as Houdini’s wife, Bess, he levitated this conventional, albeit enormously entertaining 1953 biopic that follows the legendary magician and escape artist from his days as a sideshow attraction to international stardom.
Spirit bells are hand-held chimes consisting of a short handle and a bell striker. During séances the bell is placed at the center of a table where it “rings out” answers in response to questions asked by a medium. Boston Spiritualist Mina Crandon was one of the best known mediums to incorporate a bell into her act. Even under the watchful eye of investigator Harry Houdini, Crandon was able to make a spirit bell ring without any determinable cause. The Spirit Bell was also a favorite effect of magician John Mulholland (1898 - 1970). The present example, apparently from Houdini's personal collection, comes directly from the Curtis estate. (6941)
Ephemera Culture, Ethnicity & Gender