The latest offering from Stephen Minch, Gibecière Vol. 17 No. 1 (Winter 2022), continues its legacy as the definitive journal for aficionados and scholars of magic history. This thirty-third issue is a treasure trove of expertly researched articles, providing an unparalleled look into the evolution and forgotten secrets of the magical arts. Delivered as an instant download, this volume ensures immediate access to groundbreaking scholarship.

Unearthing Ancient Wonders: Riccardo Rampini

Riccardo Rampini kicks off this compelling issue with an in-depth examination of a 1666 Italian text. His article meticulously discusses and fully translates the magic described within, revealing a four-object assembly so sophisticated it feels startlingly modern in its ingenuity. This scholarly contribution offers a rare window into the early conceptualization of complex magical routines, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the historical roots of sleight of hand.

The Dawn of Card Magic: William Kalush

Following Rampini, William Kalush presents “Verini’s Spechio,” a fascinating exploration that unearths revelations about some of the earliest known card tricks ever to appear in print. Kalush's research sheds new light on the foundational principles and presentations of card magic, providing essential context for how these popular illusions developed over centuries. For anyone interested in the genesis of card manipulation, this article is an absolute must-read.

Prop-Based Illusions: Ponsin & Hugard

The issue culminates with the concluding installment of Jean Hugard’s masterful translation of Ponsin’s extraordinary Nouvelle Magie Blanche Dévoilée. Ponsin’s work takes readers on a captivating journey through the prop-based magic popular in the mid-nineteenth century. This section offers a detailed look at the mechanics and theatricality of these historical illusions, providing practical insights even for contemporary performers.

A Visual Feast for Scholars and Enthusiasts

Beyond its scholarly content, Gibecière Vol. 17 No. 1 is a visually stunning publication. Amply illustrated in full color, it features a captivating cover and is replete with plentiful scholarly notes that enrich the reader’s understanding. This instant download is an essential addition to any magic library, promising to enlighten and inspire both seasoned historians and curious practitioners with its unique blend of academic rigor and magical wonder.

Original Specs

We are delighted to present the thirty-third issue of our flagship journal Gibecière. Riccardo Rampini contributes the first fascinating article in this Winter 2022 issue, with a discussion—and full translation into English—of the magic featured in an Italian text from 1666, including a four-object assembly that is startlingly modern in its construction. William Kalush follows with “Verini’s Spechio,” offering revelations galore about some of the earliest known card tricks in print. Rounding out this issue is the concluding part of Jean Hugard’s translation of Ponsin’s wonderful Nouvelle Magie Blanche Dévoilée, in which the author explores prop-based magic of the mid-nineteenth century. Amply illustrated in full color, with a stunning cover and plentiful notes, we are thrilled with the latest Gibecière, and we are sure you will be too!

Contents:

Pocket Notes—Stephen Minch

An Assembly in an Old Alphabet—Riccardo Rampini

Verini’s Spechio—William Kalush

Nouvelle Magie Blanche Dévoilée, Part Five—J. N. Ponsin, translated by Jean Hugard

#Card Magic History

Gibecière by Stephen Minch - Vol 17 No 1( Winter 2022 , (Instant Download)