It's unfortunate for me to see how this beautiful old trick, is currently being manufactured: with LAMINATION. While I read that in the ads, and knew it was coming, I very much wanted the routine. I first owned a version of Gypsy Curse Over twenty years ago. Back then, I wanted magic to be 'easier'-which is another way of saying that I had little confidence in my abilities as a sleight of hand artist. The cards I once got from Tannen's Magic were the same design as now-but of pasteboard that could naturally age. Looking at the routine now, it's a very deceptive variation of Wildcard, with a story line that justifies what happens. The moves in this routine, have great value in other card effects-mainly, the Hamman count. More, the final revelation, allows you to show the cards fanned, back and front...not as easy to do with Wildcard.
Now, the odd thing was that I ordered this online-and the exterior packaging shows what you see here on MLA: Hampton Ridge as manufacturer. The instructions I recieved however, were from Royal Magic, and credit the effect to Peter Kane. I mention this, because it's possible that Hampton Ridge and Royal, provide cards that are different in terms of finish. No question that I recommend this trick-it is extremly visual, and will fit in perfectly with other effects that have an antique flavor. I DO suggest looking at the cards at a dealer-or, even tracking down older copy of the trick online-because it will make no sense, to be performing an 'old story' trick, with old style cards-that have WHITE faces, and GLEAMING LAMINATION (!)...not exactly how 'ancient relics' from grandpa Peter would be looking!(...but, don't get me started about the contradictory color and design choices that occasionally pop up in this field) :)