Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Houdini the humorist

Here's a terrific twice-signed photo of Houdini currently on eBay. Not only is this an uncommon shot of HH, but I really love what he's written on the back: "It is a foolish thing for any one to sign an empty piece of paper. Houdini, Feb 2 – 1920."

For how often Houdini is depicted as being deadly serious, intense, and even morose (Death Defying Acts anyone), there is ample evidence, like this card, that he was actually pretty mischievous and witty. Just look at any of the existing film of Houdini and you'll see him always smiling and even playful before the camera. Anyway, I love that this card captures Houdini the humorist.


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4 comments:

  1. Cat AddamsNovember 30, 2011 at 3:53 PM

    ..this post made me smile...i've always believed that Harry had a humorous side...

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  2. dcbyronNovember 30, 2011 at 4:53 PM

    I've never seen this photo.

    I can't believe how many times I've enjoyed saying that about Houdiniana this year!

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  3. Beth S.December 1, 2011 at 1:49 PM

    I've never seen this photo before either! But it looks like it was taken the same day as this much more famous photo:

    http://tinyurl.com/7ljg6cv

    And Houdini definitely did have a well-preserved inner-child all his life. :)

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  4. John CoxDecember 1, 2011 at 4:52 PM

    Yes, definitely taken at the same time, but new to me!

    ReplyDelete