Magicians use the Möbius Strip to perform magic, also known as the Afghan Bands. This ebook describes the principles, history and performance this topological trick.

The Möbius Strip in Magic: A Treatise on the Afghan Bands

Peter Prevos

Peter Prevos |

302 words | 2 minutes

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The Möbius strip is one of the most enigmatic principles of mathematics. A simple loop of paper transforms in unexpected ways when cut in half. This principle has inspired mathematicians, inventors, an artists. Magicians have used this topological principle to create the illusion of magic under the name Afghan Bands.

This trick is now relegated to magic for children. But this was not always the case. Famous magicians such as Harry Blackstone and Nelson Downs regularly performed it in the stage act.

Harry Blackstone performs the Afgann Bands.

The history of this trick is a fascinating story about how magicians innovate their art using a simple principle. This history is also a tale of accusations of plagiarism. Magicians have accused each other of stealing over the many improvements made to this trick over the decades

The Möbius Strip in Magic: A Treatise on the Afghan Bands

The Möbius Strip in Magic discusses:

  • The mathematics of the Möbius Strip and how it has inspired inventors and artists.
  • A detailed history of using the Möbius strip in magic.
  • Instructions on how to create various versions of the Afghan Bands,
  • Instructions on how to create and perform the Afghan Zipper.

The Afghan Bands are a minor mystery that deserves renewed attention. This book provides extensive theoretical, historical and practical information about this trick to inspire magicians to add it to their repertoire.

The Möbius Strip in Magic: A Treatise on the Afghan Bands

The Möbius Strip in Magic: A Treatise on the Afghan Bands

Magicians use the Möbius strip to perform magic under the name Afghan Bands. This ebook describes the principles, history and performance this topological trick.

Mark Stevens, Stevens Magic Emporium.

Peter Prevos' work is incredible in every way. The items he chooses to write about are some of the most fascinating applications in the world of magic!

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