Continental School, Rare Portrait Of Harry Houdini

Continental School, Rare Portrait Of Harry HoudiniThis unusual portrait of the illusionist Harry Houdini (1874 1926) was completed during his lifetime and its a very rare find indeed. Portraits of this enigmatic character hardly ever surface and those that do are generally held in museums. Its nicely rendered and features some curious details, which add to its intrigue and allure. Note the mouth, which is slightly open as if hes about to speak, and the eyes that gaze past us with life and intent.

Perhaps he was trying to capture its old charm before the wrecking ball arrived

Medium: Oil on canvas laid on panel

Many of his works were exhibited at the illustrious Salon in Paris where he was awarded several medals

On the surface

Or is it simply a quiet moment of everyday life recorded for posterity

and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal

1870Provenance: DenmarkCondition: Artwork in good condition with one professional repair and light restoration

He offers her a drink as his flock attempt to graze through the snow underfoot

An easy-going impressionistic landscape painting by French painter

Medium: Oil on paper laid on boardOverall size: 24” x 34” / 61cm x 86cmYear of creation: 1933Provenance: GermanyCondition: Overall very presentable

It’s interesting to consider how this painting came into being as it’s not your typical genre scene

Could be cleaned if required