The full title of this book promises to scientifically reveal the secrets of legerdemain, recreative chemistry and mechanical magic "as performed in public by Herr Alexander, Robert Houdin, "The Wizard of the North," and distinguished conjurors of all ages and nations". But the cover image places the amusements very much by the fireside, with a father entertaining his gathered family in the parlour with cards and a table stacked with apparatus. The brightly printed cover offers the prospect of recreating theatrical wonders but in the comfort of your own home with the combination of the domestic scene with the swags of curtains and a banner for the title.