Tarbell Course in Magic - Volume 053 - The Thumb Shackle

The basics of magic

The first description of this effect dates back to 1785. In the 1840s, the trick was also offered by magic equipment dealers, but it was Ten Ichi who really made it popular.

The Japanese magician Ten Ichi performed this trick around 1900 and caused quite a stir, especially among magicians themselves, who puzzled for a long time as to the method by which this bondage worked.

The performer's two thumbs are tightly bound with two cords. A ring is thrown to him, and although his thumbs are bound, the ring is instantly on his arm. A moment later, it falls to the ground. The bound hands pierce a wooden stick or even the arm of a spectator, which is completely inexplicable, as the binding can be checked at any time. Ten Ichi's ingenious secret was first revealed to the professional world in the Tarbell Course in Magic.

In addition to Harlan Tarbell's explanations, readers of the German edition receive additional bonus material describing further methods and routines.

44 pages