
Magic, 1400s-1950s is a new, large, big, expensive “coffee table” book outlining the history of magic. With nearly 700 pages in this beautiful looking book, there are sure to be some head turning pages.
“Magic has enchanted humankind for millennia, evoking terror, laughter, shock, and amazement.. Long before science fiction, virtual realities, video games and the internet, the craft of magic was the most powerful fantasy world man had ever known.. This book celebrates more than 500 years of the dazzling visual culture of the world s greatest magicians. Featuring over 1,000 rarely seen vintage posters, photographs, handbills, and engravings in one 650-page volume, it traces the history of magic as a performing art from the 1400s to the 1950s. Combining sensational images with lucid and incisive text, Magic explores the evolution of the magician s craft, from medieval street performers to the brilliant stage magicians who gave rise to cinematic special effects; from the 19th century s Golden Age of Magic to groundbreaking daredevils like Houdini and the early 20th century’ vaudevillians.”
If you are a magician, fan of magic, or know anyone that is a fan, you’ve just found the perfect holiday gift. Authors Mike Caveney and Jim Steinmeyer, along with contributor Ricky Jay, are all professional magicians, scholars and historians of the first rank. This is a serious work, as well as a gigantic love letter to the 500+ ‘golden years’ of magic.
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