Four Kings Tapestry by Magic Dream Paris
Created by: Magic Dream Paris
Key features
Discreet design with celebrity portraits for a non-traditional appearance
Subtle marking system for easy card identification
Includes a 1.5-hour tutorial teaching 10 different routines
Great for mentalists avoiding traditional card decks
Clean angles and versatile for various performances
Pros
Great for mentalists who avoid traditional card decks
Strong visual appeal with recognizable celebrity faces
Versatile—capable of multiple effects in one deck
Cons
Limited practicality for performing all 10 tricks in a single set
Non-downloadable tutorial (hosted on Vimeo only)
Effect
The Four Kings Tapestry effect performed with Portraits by Olivier Zaragosa presents a visually engaging routine where four celebrity portraits are selected and seemingly lost in the deck. Despite being mixed, the portraits magically reassemble in a surprising and impossible manner. The use of recognizable faces instead of traditional kings adds a fresh twist to the classic effect, making it more relatable and intriguing for audiences.
Full details
Portraits is a marked deck featuring celebrity images instead of standard playing cards. The deck includes a mix of actors, musicians, and historical figures, ensuring broad recognition. The marking system resembles a Knock deck, allowing performers to identify cards discreetly. The deck comes with a 1.5-hour tutorial teaching 10 routines, including the Four Kings Tapestry, Triumph, and Out of This World. Some effects require minimal additional props, with certain predictions built into the box.
Who should consider the trick
This trick suits mentalists and magicians who prefer not using traditional playing cards. It works well for performers who want a disguised prop that avoids suspicion. The celebrity theme makes it ideal for modern audiences familiar with pop culture. Those who enjoy versatile decks with multiple routines will find value in Portraits.
Information on how difficult it is to perform
The routines taught in the tutorial are described as easy to learn. The marking system is subtle but manageable with practice. One double-faced card requires careful handling, but the rest of the deck is straightforward. The angles are clean, making it suitable for close-up performances.
What magicians say
David from Magic Orthodoxy praised the deck for its versatility and visual appeal. He noted, "This is a fun way to do the King's Tapestry effect... great for mentalists who like to use something that's not a deck of playing cards." He highlighted the strong marking system and the variety of effects possible. However, he mentioned that performers may only use one or two routines per set rather than all ten. The non-downloadable tutorial was noted as a minor drawback.
The deck's design and functionality make it a solid choice for those seeking a fresh take on classic card magic. The celebrity theme and disguised nature of the deck add to its deceptive qualities.
What people are saying about Four Kings Tapestry
magicorthodoxy says...
This is a fun way to do out of this world, this is a fun way to do the Triumph, it's even a fun way to do the king's tapestry effect so great for mentalists who like to use something that's not a deck of playing cards.
Review videos
Magic Review - Portraits by Olivier Zaragosa
magicorthodoxy mentioned this magic trick in this video.