HOUDINI, Harry (Erik Weisz, 1874 - 1926). Harry and Bess Houdini Presentation Handcuffs and Key. A pair of Darby handcuffs with screw-type key, mounted to a wooden plaque above an engraved plaque that reads, "To Bert Kalmar / Master Magician / An Old Friend / Of the Family / Mrs. Harry Houdini." Hanging chain at rear. 12 x 9". 

Bert Kalmar began his career in showbiz as a variety artist and boy magician in and around New York, where he became acquainted with the Houdinis. Years later, after winning international fame as a songwriter and music publisher, he again became intimately acquainted with Mrs. Houdini when she resettled in Hollywood after Houdini's passing. This is only the second such set of Houdini handcuffs mounted to a plaque by the Houdini family with which we are acquainted. 

Scuffs and soiling to plaque and tarnish to cuffs.