Arturo de Ascanio y Navaz: The Pioneer of Spanish Card Magic

Arturo de Ascanio y Navaz (1926-1997) is celebrated as the father of Spanish card magic. A lawyer by profession and a passionate amateur magician, he dedicated a significant portion of his life to the art of magic and co-founded the esteemed Escuela Mágica de Madrid.

The first volume of his series, The Structural Conception of Magic, delves into his theoretical insights. His works, Studies of Card Magic and More Studies of Card Magic, encompass all of his innovative card creations. The fourth volume, Knives and Color-Blindness, serves as a comprehensive treatise on magic involving pocket knives.

This fourth volume is more than just a collection of techniques and routines; it embodies a profound philosophy of magic where attention to detail, naturalness, and psychological elements are as vital as technical prowess. Ascanio’s extensive exploration of the psychological nuances behind the “Paddle Move” and the “color change” with knives marks a significant advancement in the realm of color-changing knife magic. His ability to articulate complex ideas clearly, combined with his exceptional sleight-of-hand skills, makes him a unique figure in the magic community. Ascanio’s writing reflects his deep understanding of the craft, ensuring that readers gain valuable insights into the art of magic.