Description:

Houdini Harry

Harry Houdini thrice signed contract to publish Professor Hoffman's final book on magic in the United States, one of the great escape artist's idols


Important Partly-printed Document Signed, "Harry Houdini," 2 pages, 8" x 12", New York, August 20, 1918, a contract between Houdini and the firm of Spon and Chamberlain for the publication of a book by Angelo Lewis (pseud. "Professor Hoffman"): Latest Magic, Being Original Conjuring Tricks (1918). Additionally signed by Houdini's assistant, John W. Sargent. The contract is accompanied by an additional Document Signed, "Harry Houdini," and "John W. Sargent," 1 page, 8" x 4.75", [New York, August 19, 1918, noting their role as agents for Lewis and relinquishing any claim on royalties for the book. Also together with a third Document Signed, "Harry Houdini," and "John W. Sargent," 1 page, 8.5" x 7.5", [New York, August 17, 1918, certifying that they have full authority to represent Lewis' interests in the matter. Usual folds, minor chip at bottom left of second page not affecting text of the contract which has been bound at top with a brown paper backing. The two additional documents bear some folds as well as irregular bottom margins. The three signatures exist in three separate pieces and could be separated as the documents are complete in and of themselves. 


Angelo J. Lewis (1839-1919), a.k.a. "Professor Hoffman" was an English barrister and one of the greatest amateur magicians of his day, and the author of several works on magic. Houdini, writing in a biography published in November, 1919 described him as "The brightest star in the firmament of magical literature." (Houdini, "Professor Hoffmann," M.U.M. The Society of Americans Magicians Monthly, November 1919).


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