Bob Kline Magic

From the Collection

Bob Kline (March 17, 1912 – June 26, 2004) was an American magician, craftsman, and educator renowned for his innovative magic apparatus marketed under Kline Kraft Magic & Products. Born in Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania, Kline’s early fascination with magic led him to create effects that complemented his performance style, including silk routines, card tricks, and productions involving wooden boxes.

At 18, Kline became a member of the Blackstone Assembly Ring 40, performing in vaudeville shows for the Brush Valley Community. After high school, he attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania and later Columbia University. In 1935, he began teaching art and craft at Indiana Joint High School, a position he held until his retirement.

Kline’s natural talent for design led him to establish Kline Kraft Magic & Products, known for high-quality workmanship. His creations, such as Copenetro, Foo Foo the Coo Coo Bird, and Quintupaddle, are celebrated for their ingenuity and craftsmanship. Additionally, Kline was the architect and designer of the Fairyland Forest theme park, showcasing his artistic vision beyond the realm of magic.

Kline’s contributions to magic have left a lasting legacy, with his apparatus remaining highly sought after by collectors and performers alike.
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Mental Locket

Mental Locket. Bob Kline, ca. 1970s.
A previously empty golden locket displayed within a black Lucite stand, is discovered to contain a miniature version of a selected card. One of eight ever made. Missing rear stand leg, but otherwise in good condition.

Swirl-It Box

Swirl-It Box, Bob Kline, ca.?
An open, empty cabinet suspended from a cord is spun rapidly. At the magician's command it visibly and instantly fills with silk handkerchiefs.

Copenetro

Copenetro | Bob Kline, ca. 1970s
A beautiful coin transposition; coins invisibly fly through the air, appearing under a covered glass. Finely made by Bob Kline, the originator of the effect.

ZooLoo

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Spirit Time

Spirit Time | Bob Kline, Kline Craft ca. 1989
A clock is set to any time while the magician’s back is turned, yet he knows the time instantly. One of 24 units manufactured.

Television Frame

Television Frame | Bob Kline, 1950s
A painted wooden television screen (approximately 12” square) sits on a matching stand. During performance, the magician “breaks” the screen, to produce a stunning cascade of silks from the punctured area.
One of only 24 units ever manufactured. In very good condition.

Graveyard Ghost

Graveyard Ghost. Bob Kline, 1970s
A painted wooden skeleton draws from the tombstone houlette the card chosen by a spectator: 14 x 14". One of 36 units manufactured. Very good.

Dove Swirl-It Box

Dove Swirl It Box. Bob Kline, ca. 1970s
Rare dove-sized variation of the classic “Swirl It” production box. Constructed of clear Plexiglas, the cabinet appears empty before producing two or three live doves as it spins. Decorated with bold three-color dragons, with locking flap and molded handle. Good condition.One of only 24 units ever manufactured. In very good condition.