Due to size and weight, this is available for shipping within the UK only.
This is the true first version, the biggest version. The second and fourth versions are often confused for this, but they are both much smaller (the version with the printed slipcase is not a "deluxe edition" as often stated, it is a considerably smaller and more common version). This measures 45 X 30 X 7cm excluding the box.
Publisher's description:
Magic has enchanted humankind for millennia, evoking terror, laughter, shock, and amazement. Once persecuted as heretics and sorcerers, magicians have always been conduits to a parallel universe of limitless possibility-whether invoking spirits, reading minds, or inverting the laws of nature by sleight of hand. 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.
As the pioneers of special effects throughout history, magicians have never ceased to mystify us by making the impossible possible. This book celebrates more than 500 years of the stunning visual culture of the world's greatest magicians. Featuring more than 750 rarely seen vintage posters, photographs, handbills, and engravings as well as paintings by Hieronymus Bosch and Bruegel among others, Magic traces the history of magic as a performing art from the 1400s to the 1950s.
Combining sensational images with incisive text, the book explores the evolution of the magicians' 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's vaudevillians.
Condition: Very good, some very minor wear. Has original transit box which has a missing portion near the handle, cotton book ties have been added to allow the book to be stored and moved with the original box safely.
Binding: Hardback
Year: 2009
Publisher: Taschen
Pages: 650
Dimensions (to nearest cm): 45 X 30cm