First published in 1922, “Indian Conjuring” is an illustrated guide to Indian magic tricks by Major L. H. Branson (1879 – 1946), a British officer in the British Indian Army and magician. It includes explanations and step-by-step instructions for a variety of magic tricks that the author came across while serving in colonial India during the early twentieth century. Contents include: “A Comparison”, “The Cup and Balls”, “The Bamboo-Sticks”, “The Ring on the Stick”, “The Glass Box”, “The Bunder Boat”, “The Bowl of Rice”, “The Coloured Sands”, “A Rope Trick”, “The Swastika”, “The Egg Bag”, “The Dancing Duck”, “The Mango Tree Trick”, etc. Other notable works by this author include: “A Text Book of Magic as Elbiquet” (1913), “Supplementary Magic as Elbiquet” (1917), and “A Lifetime of Deception: Reminiscences of a Magician” (1953). Many vintage books such as this are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. We are republishing this volume now in an affordable, modern, high-quality edition complete with the original text and artwork.

This fascinating book takes us on a journey through the history of Indian magic, exploring the origins of popular tricks like the rope trick and Indian cups and ball. From ancient times, Indian magicians were known for their mystical powers, not just their entertainment skills. We learn about the early use of charms and talismans, and even the existence of Indian fortune tellers during the Roman Empire. The book also contrasts the style of Indian magic in comparison to other Asian cultures, as well as their counterparts in Europe.