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Difference between revisions of "Wiljalba Frikell"

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== References ==
 
== References ==
* Houdini on Magic By [[Walter B. Gibson]]  
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* Houdini on Magic By [[Walter B. Gibson]] (1953)
* The Secret Life of Houdini By [[William Kalush]]
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* The Secret Life of Houdini By [[William Kalush]]  
 
* [[Mahatma]], Vol. 6, #11 - May 1903 -  article by [[Houdini]]: ''Dr. Wiljalba Frikell Still Alive''.
 
* [[Mahatma]], Vol. 6, #11 - May 1903 -  article by [[Houdini]]: ''Dr. Wiljalba Frikell Still Alive''.
  

Revision as of 20:16, 19 February 2009

Wiljalba Frikell (June 27, 1817 - October 10, 1903), born Friedrich Wilhelm Frickel in Prussia, was a German magician. He often performed as Professor Frikell. As one of the most famous magician of his time, Frikell developed and act without the usual equipment on the stage, entertaining his audience through his sleight of hand dexterity.

He performed continuously, starting at the age of sixteen until he retired at the age of 59. Frikell performed across Europe, Egypt, India and in 1872 a successful appearances in the United States.

A year after his retirement, he lost all his money when his bank failed, he returned to performing. He gave his last performance in 1896. He retired a final time, leading an almost hermit-like life, leading the magic world thinking he was dead.

Houdini learned he was still alive and tried for months to interview Frikell because he heard that he was the first to work in evening clothes, rather the the flowing robes that magicians were known for during his day. But Frikell passed away before he could.

Danish King Christian VIII honored Frikell with the Dannebrog Order of Civil Merit.

Works

  • Professor Wiljalba Frikell's Lessons in magic: Or, Two hours of illusions, without the aid of apparatus (1858).
  • The secret out: Or, One thousand tricks with cards, and other recreations. (1859)
  • Parlor tricks with cards (1863).
  • Book of riddles and five hundred home amusements (1868).
  • The magician's own book, or The whole are of conjuring (1870).
  • Hanky panky,: A book of conjuring tricks (1875).
  • 150 magic parlor tricks(1907).

References