Charles Bertram (magician)

Charles Bertram (born James Bertram Shuttleworth; 1867 – 1951) was a British stage magician, comedian, and author, known for his elegant and sophisticated performances. He gained international recognition as a close-up magician and society entertainer, performing for royalty and high society figures throughout Europe and beyond.

Bertram began his career as an amateur magician, influenced by the likes of John Henry Anderson and Robert Heller. He adopted the stage name "Charles Bertram" and quickly rose in popularity due to his skillful manipulation, witty patter, and refined stage presence. He specialized in card tricks, coin magic, and other forms of sleight-of-hand, often performing in drawing rooms and exclusive venues.

Beyond his performances, Bertram was also a prolific writer on magic. His best-known book, Isn't it Wonderful?, published in 1896, became a classic text on conjuring, offering practical advice, explanations of effects, and anecdotes from his career. The book contributed significantly to the demystification of magic, explaining how many tricks were achieved.

Bertram travelled extensively, performing in countries such as India, Egypt, and the United States. He cultivated a persona of charm and sophistication, which contributed to his success in entertaining elite audiences. His contributions to magic lie not only in his performing skill, but also in his ability to popularize the art form and make it accessible to a wider audience through his writing and stage presence.