Houdini's Oldest Trick

Discover a world of illusions and mysteries at Greene & Greene Antiques. Explore the dark arts and alter your perceptions as we watch non-believers become believers with our unique collection.

A piece in our collection is a mystery clock (image right) by Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin (December 6, 1805 - June 13, 1871), clockmaker, illusionist, inventor and magician. The glass dial with single golden hand and Roman numerals is enclosed in an ormolu and original glass dome. Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin is often referred to as 'the Father of modern magic' and was the namesake of the famous American magician Harry Houdini.

"I am tempted to believe that I came into the world with a file, a compass, or a hammer in my hand, because from my earliest childhood, these instruments were my toys, my playthings"
- Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin

Whilst we are on the topic of illusions and mysteries, HOUDINI the two part mini-series will premiere on the Seven Network this week. It follows the epic tales of Harry Houdini as he emerges as America’s first bona fide world-renowned superstar. This from humble beginnings at circus sideshows to sold-out concert halls, Eastern European immigrant Erich Weiss rose to become a household name. Naming himself after his hero the French magician and clockmaker Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, Houdini, was known across the globe. Academy Award winner Adrien Brody (The Pianist) stars as The Great Harry Houdini as he finds fame, engages in espionage, battles spiritualists and encounters the greatest names of the era, from U.S. presidents to Rasputin. A thrilling ride through Harry’s psyche, HOUDINI delves deep behind the curtain into his life through his stunts, his visions and his mastery of illusion.

Discover a world of illusions and mysteries. Come visit us at Greene & Greene Antiques, Woollahra.

This two part miniseries starring Adrien Brody as the legendary Harry Houdini.

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