The Art of Trickery: How Magicians Are Seen In Paintings, Prints and Cartoons
Thursday 18th June 2026
The Arts Society Stirling & Forth Valley
Overview
Ian Keable
Early artists used the magician to symbolise the mysterious associating them with astrology including Pieter Ruegel and Hieronymus Bosch. The 18th and 19th century saw a proliferation in engravings and lithographs showing magicians indoors and on the streets. Bringing it right up to date cartoonists and satirists delight in linking politicians with skulduggery, vanishing illusions or pulling a rabbit out of the hat. Some of the tricks will be performed.
Early artists used the magician to symbolise the mysterious associating them with astrology including Pieter Ruegel and Hieronymus Bosch. The 18th and 19th century saw a proliferation in engravings and lithographs showing magicians indoors and on the streets. Bringing it right up to date cartoonists and satirists delight in linking politicians with skulduggery, vanishing illusions or pulling a rabbit out of the hat. Some of the tricks will be performed.
