Harry Devano from Scotland was a semi-pro close-up, mental and platform magician and he created his first Devano Rising cards deck in 1948. The method has stood the test of time and one of the best versions you can purchase today is from George Richbark. They were also made when George and Dave Dorsett were teamed together as Douglas-Wayne Illusioneering. The block is only 15 cards thick and this is better than most other types of gimmicked deck I have seen, and allows the deck to be handled very freely. It also uses pins instead of tape, which has always been my preferred contact system.
In Claude Klingsor’s amazing “The Big Book of Rising Cards” I was really pleased to see that Mr. Klingsor has this to say about the The Devano deck in the final Conclusion Page (201)
I think the best method for close-up is the Devano method (like Keith Bennett’s version) if you use a different way to make each card rise. The first card comes out of the pack which is held by the magician. The second one comes out of the pack; the second card being placed in its case. For the third one, the pack is placed into a glass. Al Goshman performed a very nice routine of that kind and Alfredo Marchese created a beautiful finale by adding the cards fountain to his routine.
And I whole wholeheartedly agree!
The video clip of Don Alan is amazing – talk about a beautiful routine. That is a true master at work! The Devano routine starts at 2:53 for those who can’t wait!
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