
PREFACE.
CHAPTER I. CABINET TRICKS.
CHAPTER II. TABLE LIFTING.
CHAPTER III. THE FLOATING GIRL.
CHAPTER IV. SECOND SIGHT AND KINDRED PHENOMENA.
CHAPTER V. PARLOR AMUSEMENTS.
A curious mind will find this compact guide a fascinating glimpse behind the curtain of today’s stage‑magicians and self‑styled spiritualists. Dr. Pinetti walks listeners through the everyday tools and clever engineering that turn ordinary cabinets, ribbons, and hidden compartments into seemingly supernatural feats. By focusing on the mechanics rather than mysticism, the book demystifies how a simple hollow leg or a concealed rope can produce ringing bells, moving water, and even intricate paper designs while an audience watches in awe. The narrative reads like a friendly workshop, inviting you to spot the subtle cues that separate trickery from true mystery.
The first chapter dives into the classic “cabinet tricks,” where a bound performer appears to conjure music and objects from thin air. Detailed descriptions reveal how assistants beneath the stage manipulate hidden mechanisms, while the performer’s exposed shoulders give the illusion of helplessness. Through clear, everyday language, the author equips you with the observational skills to question what you see and to appreciate the artistry behind the deception. Whether you’re a skeptic, a magic enthusiast, or simply curious, the book offers an engaging tour of the hidden engineering that powers modern illusion.
Language
en
Duration
~1 hours (68K characters)
Release date
Jan 1, 2025
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

A little-known early 20th-century magic writer, remembered for a practical handbook that pulls back the curtain on stage illusions, second sight, and mechanical tricks. The mystery around the name only adds to the book’s old-world appeal.
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