Colonel Stodare (Joseph Stoddart) | "It is the province of the conjurer to amuse, but he may also be said to instruct whilst he amuses"

Colonel Stodare (Joseph Stoddart)

The Art of Magic. London: Theatre of Mystery,Egyptian Hall, 1865

Pamphlet of 8 bifolia, sewn (210 x 135 mm). Pages browned with a few marginal chips. In original green wrappers printed in black, front wrapper with title and engraved portrait of Stoddart ruled in black border; overall worn, soiled with loss to front, rear wrapper missing.

Joseph Stoddart was a notable magician who "had the distinguished honour to appear, by Her Majesty's command, at Windsor Castle, in his Entertainment of Magic and Ventriloquism, on the occasion of the birthday of H.R.H. the Princess Royal." The pamphlet contains explanations of numerous tricks, as well as two lengthy prefaces: one on the qualities of a "real conjurer," in contrast to those of "pseudo conjurors ... who have not one spark of the true art," and another on "Hindu Magic." He also offers some strong "Advice to Amateurs": "Remember that dexterity lies at the base of all good conjuring, and that to acquire dexterity you should 'practice! practice! practice!' There is no royal road even to the art of magic." Scarce. Our records only show two copies previously offered at auction.