Unveiling Historical Magic Mysteries

Dive deep into the intriguing world of magic history with Mitsunobu Matsuyama’s third installment of 'An Investigation into Magic in Japan after the Opening of the Country.' This captivating article meticulously uncovers the puzzling journey of Soto Sunetaro to the U.S.A., shedding light on his significant, yet often overlooked, contributions to the history of de Kolta’s iconic 'Expanding Die' illusion. Matsuyama’s research provides invaluable insights for historians and enthusiasts alike, offering a fresh perspective on the cross-cultural exchange of magical knowledge and the foundational figures who shaped the art form in both Japan and the West.

The Intriguing World of Ideomechanic Devices

Dr. William Spooner contributes a compelling historical account of the ideomechanic pendulum, an intriguing device widely recognized as the 'Sex Detector.' This detailed exploration delves into the origins, evolution, and societal impact of this curious instrument, which captured public fascination with its purported ability to answer yes/no questions and reveal hidden truths. Spooner meticulously traces the pendulum’s journey through scientific inquiry, spiritualism, and popular culture, offering a unique glimpse into a specific era where the lines between science, belief, and entertainment often blurred. Understand the cultural significance and the mechanics behind this unique piece of historical apparatus.

Art, Illusion, and Hidden Meanings

Volker Huber returns with a brilliant analysis, offering a definitive solution to the perplexing source of German artist Max Beckmann’s enigmatic lithograph, 'Magic Mirror.' Beckmann's work has long puzzled art historians and magic aficionados, but Huber’s meticulous research cuts through the ambiguity, revealing the artistic and magical inspirations behind this captivating piece. This section provides a fascinating intersection of fine art and illusion, demonstrating how magical themes and techniques have permeated visual culture. Gain a deeper appreciation for the interplay between artistic expression and the world of conjuring, unlocking secrets previously hidden within Beckmann’s masterpiece.

A Rare Glimpse into a Master Magician's Life

Prepare for an unparalleled historical treat: the first-ever English translation of Satana raccolta Europea: passatempo dell’intermezzo nelle sedute: di magia egiziana: del cavaliere Bartolomeo Bosco. This exceedingly rare and early biography chronicles the life and times of the legendary sleight-of-hand performer, Bartolomeo Bosco, offering an intimate look at one of magic’s most celebrated figures. We are particularly thrilled to present this new translation with an exclusive introduction penned by the incomparable Ricky Jay. Jay’s insights elevate this historical document, providing context and commentary from one of magic’s most revered scholars and practitioners. This is an essential read for anyone interested in the foundational figures of modern magic.

Original Specs

The first issue of our third volume includes the fascinating third installment of Mitsunobu Matsuyama’s “An Investigation into Magic in Japan after the Opening of the Country.” This time he is solving the mystery of Soto Sunetaro’s arrival in the U.S.A. and discussing the role that Soto played in the history of de Kolta’s “Expanding Die” illusion.

Dr. William Spooner has contributed a history of the ideomechanic pendulum commonly known as the “Sex Detector.”

Volker Huber returns to provide a solution to the source of German artist Max Beckmann’s puzzling lithograph, “Magic Mirror.”

We have also included the first English translation of Satana raccolta Europea: passatempo dell’intermezzo nelle sedute: di magia egiziana: del cavaliere Bartolomeo Bosco, a rare and early biography of the renowned sleight-of-hand performer Bartolomeo Bosco. And we are very excited that this new translation includes an introduction by Ricky Jay.

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