Signed book: The Unmasking of Robert-Houdin. Later printing. NY: Publishers Printing Co., 1908. Hardcover, 5.75 x 8.25, 319 pages. Signed and inscribed on the first free end page, “To Miss Katharine H. Norton, with compliments of the author, Harry Houdini August 1910.” Vertical block of toning to signed page, library stamp to signed page and other pages, complete separation along front hinge, although still attached, left side of last page affixed to back pastedown, chipping to fore-edges, and wear, soiling and fraying to covers and spine, and an old ink notation and number to spine (some tears and loss to head, tails, and edge of spine as well), otherwise very good condition.
This volume was Houdini’s unflattering account of his legendary predecessor, Jean Eugene Robert-Houdin, a French magician considered to be the father of the modern style of conjuring. Published in 1908 after Robert-Houdin’s widow would not agree to meet with Houdini, the magician called his predecessor ‘a mere pretender, a man who waxed great on the brainwork of others,’ by showing that most of the tricks that Robert-Houdin claimed as his invention were in fact not. Ironically, Houdini himself built his own reputation by improving upon the tricks of his predecessors. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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