Magical Matchstick Statue

We’re proud to announce a VERY limited edition item that is, perhaps, the most astounding thing we’ve ever seen. These sculptures of magicians doing classic magic effects are hand-carved…into the ends of a matchstick! You read that right. They have to be seen with a magnifying glass to be fully appreciated, but they are works of art that are truly astonishing! And, for a modest price, you can display these works in a glass dome display on your desk or shelf.

Here’s the story of how these have come to us, and now to you. Joshua Jay here, and as I travel the world, I’m always on the lookout for “magical” items. Earlier this year in Chile, I encountered the most magical person—and artwork—I’ve ever come across. Roberto Godoy has been carving sculptures into matchsticks his entire life; he spends about an hour on each one. When I walked into his shop, I saw him working without any special equipment: he just used reading glasses and an X-acto knife. Wood shavings covered his desk. I marveled at the matchstick sculptures and asked him, “Could you do a magician?”

“I don’t know,” Roberto replied. “Let’s try. Come back in an hour.” When I came back, I was astounded at the result. He carved a magician wearing a top hat, but further than that, the magician held LINKED RINGS. I doubted this was possible; it seemed like an elaborate prank, so I watched as he did another one for me. I bought both, and they are now two of my most treasured possessions. When people visit my house, they inspect these pieces and study them with a magnifying glass. Just as I did, they doubt their veracity until I explain the story.

These pieces are more than works of art. They are stories.

Since that time, we’ve partnered with Roberto to create five different pieces, each one carved by hand in meticulous detail in Santiago, then carefully placed in a wooden plinth and glass dome casings. Each piece that you order is a handcrafted work of art that tells a story. They make an excellent set if you invest in the group.

Choose from:

Linking Rings: A magician links rings between their hands.
Dove Production: the iconic image of a dove magician plying their magic.
Cards and Wand: For our close-up workers, under a magnifying glass, you can see cards in the magician’s hand.
Rabbit in Hat: A magician produces a rabbit from a hat.
Sawing in Half: A magician is standing vertically and floating a lady horizontally in front of him.

They may not be a magic trick per se, but these are among the most magical, delicate, and beautiful items we’ve ever encountered.

Our quantities are very limited, and Roberto has indicated that this project was a one-off, so we’re unlikely to get any more stock. Act now, and help us celebrate how the smallest miracles are often the most impactful.