The Chamber of Secrets: Robert-Houdin’s Light and Heavy Chest

Robert-Houdin’s legendary Light and Heavy Chest

John Gaughan
The Chamber of Secrets: Robert-Houdin’s Light and Heavy Chest
Historical illustrations courtesy of Jim Steinmeyer / Charles Larson, lifting the Light and Heavy Chest, courtesy of Potter & Potter Auctions

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about the author
John Gaughan
John’s love for collecting began when he received a vintage mini-die box as a gift. He followed Mark Wilson from Texas to Los Angeles in the 1960s, and is today a world-renowned illusion builder.
Los Angeles, CA
about the author
Dustin Stinett
Dustin’s byline first appeared in Genii in 2002 and was a regular contributor by 2004. The magazine’s associate editor from 2014 to 2024, he was its interim editor during 2022. He retired in 2024.
California, CA, USA
PerspectivesViewpointsMarch 2025