Erie Magician’s Historic Prop Appraised for $80,000 on Antiques Roadshow

An Erie magician’s carved head, potentially used in his act, has recently been appraised at a staggering $60,000 to $80,000 on the popular television show *Antiques Roadshow*. This intriguing piece, purchased by a female magician for just $5,000, is believed to have belonged to the legendary magician Harry Kellar, an Erie native.

The appraisal has captivated both magic enthusiasts and history buffs alike, shedding light on the fascinating world of early 20th-century magic and its enduring legacy.

The Enigmatic Carved Head of Harry Kellar

The carved head, which was originally bought from a London antiques shop, was initially described as having belonged to Harry Houdini. However, further investigation revealed that it most likely belonged to Houdini’s friend and fellow magician, Harry Kellar.

Houdini, a fan and friend of Kellar, was known to have been gifted some of Kellar’s props, adding credibility to this intriguing discovery.

Historical Significance

Harry Kellar, born Heinrich Keller in 1849, grew up on West 13th Street in Erie, near what is now Griswold Park. He staged his first solo magic show at the age of 16 in Dunkirk, New York, before going on to perform at theaters and opera houses around the world.

Kellar was best known for his spectacular version of levitation. In his act, a girl would mysteriously rise from a couch, float across the stage, and then disappear into thin air.

The Appraisal on Antiques Roadshow

During an episode of *Antiques Roadshow* that aired on PBS, appraiser James Supp evaluated the carved head and estimated its value to be between $60,000 and $80,000 for insurance purposes.

While Supp did not speculate on what the piece might bring at auction, he noted that there are likely collectors who would pay much more for such a rare and historically significant item.

The Role of the Carved Head in Magic

Both Supp and the carving’s owner speculated that the head was likely used in a spiritualism illusion, a popular theme among magicians of Kellar’s era.

Spiritualism illusions involved debunking mediums who claimed to summon and speak with the dead by replicating their tricks. Kellar, Houdini, and other magicians were known for exposing these fraudulent practices.

Additionally, Kellar was famous for his “self decapitation” illusion, where a floating head, similar to the one appraised, appeared in promotional posters. This connection further solidifies the likelihood that the carved head was indeed used by Kellar in his performances.

Kellar’s Legacy in Modern Magic

Harry Kellar’s influence on the world of magic is still felt today. In 2020, Kellar’s, A Modern Magic & Comedy Club, opened in Erie, paying homage to the magician’s enduring legacy.

The club continues to celebrate Kellar’s contributions to the art of magic and serves as a testament to his lasting impact on the industry.

Preserving the History of Magic

The appraisal of the carved head not only highlights the monetary value of such artifacts but also underscores the importance of preserving the history of magic.

Collectors and historians alike are eager to uncover and protect these pieces, ensuring that the stories and legacies of magicians like Harry Kellar are not forgotten.

The fascination with Kellar’s carved head and its appraisal on *Antiques Roadshow* serves as a reminder of the rich history and cultural significance of magic.

As we continue to explore and celebrate these historical artifacts, we gain a deeper appreciation for the art form and its evolution over time.

Conclusion

The recent appraisal of Harry Kellar’s carved head on *Antiques Roadshow* has sparked renewed interest in the magician’s life and work. With an estimated value of $60,000 to $80,000, this unique piece offers a glimpse into the world of early 20th-century magic and the enduring legacy of one of its most influential figures.

As we continue to uncover and preserve these historical treasures, we ensure that the magic and wonder of performers like Kellar live on for future generations to enjoy.

For more information on this fascinating appraisal, visit the original article on Go Erie.