Magic Museum

The Magic Circle Museum, located at the headquarters of the Magic Circle on Stephenson Way, London, is one of the most fascinating places for anyone interested in the art of magic and illusionism. Founded in 1905, the Magic Circle is one of the most prestigious magic societies in the world, and its museum offers an extraordinary collection of objects related to the history of magic. The history of the Magic Circle begins with a group of 23 professional and amateur magicians who met at Pinoli’s Restaurant in Soho, London, with the aim of creating an association to promote the art of magic. Among the founding members were Servais Le Roy, an internationally renowned illusionist, and David Devant, who became the first president of the society. Devant, famous for his elegance and refined style, played a crucial role in establishing the Magic Circle’s reputation as a center of excellence in the field of magic.The Magic Circle Museum, located within the Centre for the Magic Arts, houses a collection of objects that tell the story of magic from its beginnings to the present day. Among the most famous pieces are the handcuffs used by Harry Houdini, the legendary escapologist known for his spectacular escapes from impossible situations. Houdini’s handcuffs are not only a relic of a bygone era, but also represent the innovation and courage that defined the career of this great artist.Another treasure of the museum is the cups and balls set used by Prince Charles when he passed the exam to become a member of the Magic Circle in 1975. This object, in addition to being a symbol of royal inclusion in the magic community, demonstrates how the art of magic has fascinated people from all walks of life and continues to do so.Among the historical figures represented in the museum is Chung Ling Soo, a magician who captivated the British public in the early 20th century. Chung Ling Soo, whose real name was William Ellsworth Robinson, adopted an oriental character to add an aura of mystery to his performances. Tragically, he died during a performance of his famous “Bullet Catch” act in 1918. The museum displays costumes and equipment that belonged to Chung Ling Soo, offering a glimpse into the life and career of this enigmatic magician.The headquarters of the Magic Circle, opened in 1998, was built inside a renovated Victorian warehouse. This building, called the Centre for the Magic Arts, has been transformed into a modern and functional space, while still retaining its historic charm. The building houses not only the museum, but also a library and a theater, providing valuable resources for learning and practicing magic.An intriguing anecdote concerns the admission of women to the Magic Circle. Until 1991, the club was exclusively for men. However, the determination of many female magicians finally led to the club opening its doors to women as well. Today, there are over 80 female members, including renowned magicians like Fay Presto and Katherine Mills. The recent election of Megan Swann as the first female president of the Magic Circle represents an important step forward for inclusion and diversity in the world of magic.The Magic Circle library is another invaluable resource, containing a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts on magic. This library is open to members and scholars, providing a place where one can delve into the history and techniques of magic through texts ranging from early Renaissance treatises to modern publications.