Magic 1400s-1950s

Magic has fascinated and intrigued humans for centuries, and this book celebrates over 500 years of its visual culture, featuring rare posters, photographs, and engravings from the 1400s to the 1950s. It explores the evolution of magic as a performing art, from medieval street performers to stage magicians and cinematic special effects, and includes contributions from Hieronymus Bosch and Bruegel.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 544 pages
\n Publication date: 20 August 2021
\n Publisher: Taschen GmbH
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For countless generations, magic has held a captivating allure, evoking a spectrum of emotions ranging from fear to laughter, shock to awe. Once deemed heretics and sorcerers, magicians have always served as gateways to an infinite realm of boundless possibilities, whether through the invocation of spirits, the interpretation of minds, or the subversion of natural laws through deft sleight of hand. In an era predating the emergence of science fiction, virtual realities, video games, and the Internet, the art of magic stood as the most potent and immersive fantasy world ever conceived by man. Throughout history, magicians have consistently astounded us by manifesting the seemingly unattainable.

This captivating tome pays homage to over 500 years of the awe-inspiring visual heritage of the greatest magicians in the world. Comprising an extensive collection of over 750 rare vintage posters, photographs, handbills, and engravings, along with captivating paintings by renowned artists such as Hieronymus Bosch and Bruegel, Magic offers a comprehensive chronicle of the evolution of magic as a captivating performing art, spanning from the 1400s to the 1950s. Through a harmonious blend of sensational imagery and insightful text, the book delves into the intricate tapestry of the magician's craft, exploring its metamorphosis from humble street performers to the brilliant stage magicians who laid the foundation for cinematic special effects. It also delves into the golden age of magic in the 19th century, characterized by legendary figures like Houdini and the daring daredevils of the early 20th century's vaudeville scene.

Magic has transcended time and culture, captivating audiences around the globe with its mesmerizing illusions and breathtaking performances. From the mysterious depths of ancient civilizations to the modern-day stages of grand theaters, magic continues to inspire, amaze, and transport us to a realm where the impossible becomes a reality. This book serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of magic, celebrating its rich history, captivating artistry, and the boundless imagination of its practitioners.

\n Weight: 4496g\n
Dimension: 261 x 385 x 54 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9783836586689\n \n