Hydrostatic Glass by Unknown (popularized by various magicians)

Effect

The Hydrostatic Glass is a visually striking trick where a magician pours water into a glass, covers it with a coaster or postcard, and inverts it. Despite removing the covering, the water remains suspended inside the glass as if defying gravity. When the magician chooses, the water finally pours out, often into a waiting container. The effect combines science and magic, creating a moment of impossible physics that leaves audiences baffled.

Full Details

The Hydrostatic Glass involves a sealed jar or glass and a simple yet deceptive principle of physics. The magician demonstrates that the glass is completely ordinary, pours water inside, and seals it with a flat object (like a coaster). When inverted, the water appears to stay in place—seemingly frozen in midair—until the magician releases it at will.

The trick is highly adaptable. Some performers use it as a standalone demonstration of "pausing time," while others incorporate it into larger routines about physics, impossibility, or even comedic timing. The method is self-contained, requiring no complex gimmicks, making it practical for impromptu performances.

Who Should Consider the Trick

• Close-up magicians looking for a visual, interactive effect.
• Mentalists who want to explore themes of physics or time manipulation.
• Performers who enjoy storytelling, as the trick lends itself to narratives (e.g., "What if time stopped?").
• Beginners and professionals alike, as the method is straightforward but the impact is strong.

Difficulty

The Hydrostatic Glass is easy to perform from a technical standpoint. The method relies more on presentation than sleight of hand, making it accessible to newcomers. However, the real challenge lies in:

• Timing and pacing—letting the impossibility sink in before the final release.
• Engaging the audience with a compelling story or scientific curiosity.
• Handling the props naturally to avoid suspicion.

What Magicians Say

• Oliver Meech praises its practicality and psychological impact: "It's one of those beginner tricks that seasoned performers still use because it just works. The water doesn’t fall out, and that’s all the magic you need."
• Paul Zenon has used it in comedic settings, highlighting its versatility: "You can play it straight or for laughs—either way, the audience can’t believe their eyes."
• AlakazamMagicUK notes its deceptive simplicity: "It’s a classic for a reason. The method is almost too obvious, which is why it fools people so well."

The Hydrostatic Glass is a perfect blend of science and magic, offering a strong, repeatable effect with minimal setup. Whether used as a quick visual stunt or a deeper piece of storytelling, it’s a trick that continues to surprise audiences.