Imp Bottle Magic Trick

The Imp Bottle is a classic of magic that has intrigued audiences for over 150 years. The trick first appeared in the United States in the Hartz Catalogue of 1876. It also gained widespread recognition when it was detailed in Professor Hoffmann's seminal work, Modern Magic, which is considered a foundational text for Victorian-era magicians. The trick is a puzzle-based illusion involving a small wooden or plastic bottle with a rounded bottom that naturally won't lie on it's side. The basic effect is that only the magician can make the bottle lie flat on it's side at will, but when a spectator tries, the bottle "obstinately" pops back up to a standing position. Today, the trick is a staple for beginner magicians, being very easy to perform, and is sold by major magic dealers the world over.