Decremps - La Magie blanche dévoilée - 1788
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€ 51
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Selected by Zena Chiara Masud
Holds a master’s degree in bibliography, with seven years of experience specialising in incunabula and Arabic manuscripts.
Estimate € 300 - € 400
 | €51 | |
|---|---|---|
 | €46 | |
 | €41 | |
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Henri Decremps’s second edition of *La Magie blanche dévoilée*, published in Paris by Lesclapart in 1788, is a French-language work on magic, physics and diversions, bound in parchment.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
A fascinating work from the early history of modern conjuring: Henri Decremps reveals the secrets of famous magic tricks, seemingly miraculous automata, and astonishing physical experiments. The second edition, revised by the author in 1788, possesses a particularly charming engraved frontispiece showing a spectacular card trick with a pistol.
Decremps, Henri. La Magie blanche dévoilée, ou Explication des Tours surprenans qui font depuis peu l'admiration de la Capitale & de la Province, avec des réflexions sur la Baguette divinatoire, les Automates joueurs d'Échecs, &c. &c. Seconde édition corrigée par l'auteur. Paris, Lesclapart, 1788. XXIV, 128 Seiten. Mit gestochenem Frontispiz und einer schematischen Textillustration. Zeitgenössischer Halb-Pergamentband mit handschriftlichem Rückentitel und dekorativen, mehrfarbig floral gemusterten Deckelbezügen. 21 x 13 cm
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Henri Decremps (1746–1826) belonged to the early significant authors on the art of deception and entertainment magic. His work first appeared in 1784 and became renowned in particular for revealing the tricks of the famous Italian illusionist Giuseppe Pinetti, who enjoyed great success at the French court. Decremps explains how apparent wonders arise through clever mechanics, optical illusions, hidden aids, and refined misdirection.
The described tricks are especially entertaining: an artificial bird that sings on command, a seemingly self-operating automaton, torn and restored objects, and card tricks in which playing cards disappear or reappear in mysterious ways. The impressive frontispiece shows a demonstrator attaching a playing card to the wall apparently by a pistol shot.
Beyond the actual magical craft, the book conveys a vivid impression of the scientific exhibitions and technical curiosities of the late 18th century. Decremps also discusses dowsing rods, chess automata, and mathematical feats. Thus the work is of particular interest not only to collectors of historical magic literature but also to those interested in the history of technology, automaton construction, and the culture of Enlightenment entertainment.
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Inside, slightly browned and speckled in places, with occasional minor marginal discolorations. Overall, a beautiful, especially attractively bound copy of this early classic of conjuring.
Seller's Story
About hq-books
For many years, I have passionately dedicated myself to trading rare and antiquarian books. My focus is on literature, history, science, and culturally significant works from the 16th to the 20th century.
Each book is carefully examined, described, and photographed to offer collectors authentic and high-quality items. If something does not meet your expectations, please contact me, and we will find the best solution together.
I am delighted when my books find new lovers who appreciate the charm of old prints as much as I do.
Translated by Google TranslateA fascinating work from the early history of modern conjuring: Henri Decremps reveals the secrets of famous magic tricks, seemingly miraculous automata, and astonishing physical experiments. The second edition, revised by the author in 1788, possesses a particularly charming engraved frontispiece showing a spectacular card trick with a pistol.
Decremps, Henri. La Magie blanche dévoilée, ou Explication des Tours surprenans qui font depuis peu l'admiration de la Capitale & de la Province, avec des réflexions sur la Baguette divinatoire, les Automates joueurs d'Échecs, &c. &c. Seconde édition corrigée par l'auteur. Paris, Lesclapart, 1788. XXIV, 128 Seiten. Mit gestochenem Frontispiz und einer schematischen Textillustration. Zeitgenössischer Halb-Pergamentband mit handschriftlichem Rückentitel und dekorativen, mehrfarbig floral gemusterten Deckelbezügen. 21 x 13 cm
--------------------------------------
Henri Decremps (1746–1826) belonged to the early significant authors on the art of deception and entertainment magic. His work first appeared in 1784 and became renowned in particular for revealing the tricks of the famous Italian illusionist Giuseppe Pinetti, who enjoyed great success at the French court. Decremps explains how apparent wonders arise through clever mechanics, optical illusions, hidden aids, and refined misdirection.
The described tricks are especially entertaining: an artificial bird that sings on command, a seemingly self-operating automaton, torn and restored objects, and card tricks in which playing cards disappear or reappear in mysterious ways. The impressive frontispiece shows a demonstrator attaching a playing card to the wall apparently by a pistol shot.
Beyond the actual magical craft, the book conveys a vivid impression of the scientific exhibitions and technical curiosities of the late 18th century. Decremps also discusses dowsing rods, chess automata, and mathematical feats. Thus the work is of particular interest not only to collectors of historical magic literature but also to those interested in the history of technology, automaton construction, and the culture of Enlightenment entertainment.
--------------------------------------
Inside, slightly browned and speckled in places, with occasional minor marginal discolorations. Overall, a beautiful, especially attractively bound copy of this early classic of conjuring.
Seller's Story
About hq-books
For many years, I have passionately dedicated myself to trading rare and antiquarian books. My focus is on literature, history, science, and culturally significant works from the 16th to the 20th century.
Each book is carefully examined, described, and photographed to offer collectors authentic and high-quality items. If something does not meet your expectations, please contact me, and we will find the best solution together.
I am delighted when my books find new lovers who appreciate the charm of old prints as much as I do.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Number of books
1
Subject
Esotericism, Games and pastimes, Physics
Book title
La Magie blanche dévoilée
Author/ Illustrator
Decremps
Condition
Very good
Publication year oldest item
1788
Height
21 cm
Edition
Subsequent edition
Width
13 cm
Language
French
Original language
Yes
Publisher
Paris, Lesclapart
Binding/ Material
Vellum
Number of pages
152
