Houdini, Harry (Erik Weisz) | One of just five recorded copies

Houdini, Harry (Erik Weisz)

Ehrenerklärung! Im Namen des König’s Wilhelm, II. Kaiser v. Deutschland. Leipzig: Atelier J. Zier, [1902]

Color lithograph poster (29 1/4 x 42 in.; 743 x 1067 mm). Extensive losses at fold creases, particularly the intersecting fold creases, with recoloring and restoration in facsimile. Laid down on linen. 

One of just five recorded copies of this celebrated poster commemorating one of the pivotal episodes of Houdini's life: the trial that vindicated Houdini when he sued Cologne Patrolman Werner Graff and newspaper editor Johann Merfeld for slander after they alleged that his escapes were accomplished through trickery and bribery. 

The poster depicts Houdini standing before a panel of judges, and an audience consisting solely of police officers, just before he escaped a pair of handcuffs in full view of the court. The extensive text summarizes the entire affair:

"The Imperial Police of Cologne slanderously libeled Harry Houdini, stating his advertised tricks were swindles!

"Houdini answered them by sueing for 'An Honorary Public Apology'. The Police lost the Case in the three highest Courts, as they were unable to fetter or Chain Houdini in an unescapable manner. He was even successful in opening a special lock that they had constructed which after it had once been locked could not be opened! … Having lost the case in all three trials, the Police were ultimately compelled to publicly advertise 'An Honorary Apology' and pay all costs of the trials. By command of Kaiser Wilhelm II. Emperor of Germany."

The trial and, especially, the honorary apology from the Kaiser, were a publicity boon that Houdini did not fail to exploit to the fullest advantage.

REFERENCE:

Exemplars, p. 50; cf. Silverman, Houdini!!!, pp. 79–84