The Mystery of Robert-Houdin’s Light and Heavy Chest
Magic’s past meets the present! Jim Steinmeyer and John Gaughan reveal the secrets of Robert-Houdin’s Light and Heavy Chest in Genii March 2025.
Two legendary magicians, Jim Steinmeyer and John Gaughan, unveil the secrets of one of magic’s most intriguing props. Watch the video below.
A Fascinating Discussion Between Two Masters
Few props in magic have the historical weight (literally and figuratively) of Robert-Houdin’s Light and Heavy Chest. In the March 2025 edition of Genii magazine, Jim Steinmeyer and John Gaughan take us inside the Chamber of Secrets for an exclusive look at this remarkable illusion.
John Gaughan, a master restorer of antique magic apparatus, presents the very chest itself, while Jim Steinmeyer, a leading magic historian, unpacks its historical significance.
Initially performed by Robert-Houdin in the mid-19th century, this illusion used electromagnetism to create the impossible—an ordinary-looking wooden chest that could suddenly become immovable.
The Deceptive Genius of the Light and Heavy Chest
The discussion between Steinmeyer and Gaughan reveals stunning details about this legendary effect:
A Revolutionary Principle: The trick relied on an electromagnet hidden in the stage, anchoring the chest so firmly that even the strongest spectator couldn’t lift it.
Craftsmanship Beyond the Trick: Gaughan showcases the fine mahogany construction, unusual hardware, and hidden mechanisms that made this chest a work of art.
A Forgotten Treasure: Over the years, the chest changed hands through auctions and private collections, with restorations adding modern enhancements.
An Unexpected Shock: Historical letters suggest the handle may have delivered a mild electric shock to unsuspecting spectators, adding to the deception.
Watch the Video
Steinmeyer reflects on how magic’s greatest illusions are often as much about their craftsmanship as their effect on the audience. “It’s always interesting seeing the artistry of magic mechanics—how everything fits together seamlessly.”
Gaughan adds, “They put so much talent, time, and energy into these tricks—just to fool someone. That’s the beauty of magic.”
More Magic Inside the March 2025 Edition of Genii
Beyond this deep dive into The Light and Heavy Chest, this issue of Genii is packed with incredible magic, including:
Ellen Coghlan’s Fool Us Legacy – How she consistently baffles Penn & Teller.
New Magic from R. Paul Wilson – A clever coins-to-glass effect.
David Regal’s Latest Routine – A prediction trick with a game-changing method.
Sarah Rodriguez’s Debut in Genii – A technical and fast-paced collector’s routine.
Blake Voght’s Experimental Magic – A challenge to create a new trick in one hour.
Read the Full Article
Check out Genii March 2025 for the full breakdown: https://geniimagazine.com/
