Card manipulation
Some of the most recognized names in this field include Dai Vernon,[1] Tony Slydini,[2] Ed Marlo, S.W.
Erdnase, Richard Turner, John Scarne, Ricky Jay[3] and René Lavand.
Playing cards became popular with magicians in the 15th century[7] as they were props which were inexpensive, versatile, and easily accessible.
These range from complex mathematics like those used by Persi Diaconis, the use of psychological techniques like those taught by Banachek, to extremely difficult sleight of hand like that of Ed Marlo and Dai Vernon.
[12] The produced card(s) are normally known to the audience, for example having previously been selected or identified as part of the illusion.
However, following rapid and concealed manipulation by the performer, it is secretly moved or displaced - usually to the top (or bottom) of the deck.
Cards palmed from a deck are typically held in reserve (unseen by the audience) until production is required for the illusion being performed.
Crimps are techniques whereby part of a card is intentionally physically marked, creased, or bent to facilitate identification during an illusion.
The protrusion, although not noticeable to the audience, permits the performer to retain knowledge about the location of the card during other manipulations.
In many cases, the ‘skill’ of a card illusionist is determined by how well they can switch the audiences attention from one part of the performance to the next, which becomes more difficult when dealing with hecklers.
Magicians can use card techniques like flourishing, verbal misdirection and by cracking jokes, in order to mislead the audience, making concealment of important sleight of hand easier in the process.
