Magus of the Candelabra MTG Card


Magus of the Candelabra offers a form of card advantage by utilizing land untap synergies. Can rapidly increase mana resources, allowing execution of demanding strategies earlier. Operates at instant speed, providing strategic flexibility and a tactical edge in games.
Card setsReleased in 3 setsSee all
Mana cost
Converted mana cost1
RarityRare
TypeCreature — Human Wizard
Power 1
Toughness 2

Text of card

, : Untap X target lands.

"What would Urza think, I wonder, if he could hear how the nature mages still snarl at his name, but venerate the work of his apprentice?" —Teferi, to Jhoira


Cards like Magus of the Candelabra

Magus of the Candelabra stands out as a unique mana manipulator in Magic: The Gathering. It bears resemblance to the original Candelabra of Tawnos, though not as potent due to the creature type allowing for more interactive responses from opponents. Both cards share the ability to untap lands at a one-to-one rate, fitting seamlessly into decks that exploit land-based strategies for big payoffs.

Another significant comparison is with Kiora’s Follower, a versatile creature able to untap any permanent, not just lands. This flexibility can sometimes give Kiora’s Follower an edge in utility over Magus of the Candelabra. Voyaging Satyr and Arbor Elf are also in this category, each capable of untapping a single land. These creatures offer a cheaper alternative for untapping, but they lack the scalable nature of Magus of the Candelabra, which can untap multiple lands in a single turn.

When evaluating mana untappers within Magic: The Gathering, Magus of the Candelabra emerges as a specialized option for big mana decks, making it a noteworthy consideration for players looking to leverage land-based strategies effectively.

Candelabra of Tawnos - MTG Card versions
Kiora's Follower - MTG Card versions
Voyaging Satyr - MTG Card versions
Arbor Elf - MTG Card versions
Candelabra of Tawnos - MTG Card versions
Kiora's Follower - MTG Card versions
Voyaging Satyr - MTG Card versions
Arbor Elf - MTG Card versions

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Shanodin Dryads - MTG Card versions
Wall of Wood - MTG Card versions
Village Elder - MTG Card versions
Spike Drone - MTG Card versions
Skyshroud Elite - MTG Card versions
Elvish Berserker - MTG Card versions
Tree Monkey - MTG Card versions
Wild Dogs - MTG Card versions
Elvish Herder - MTG Card versions
Pouncing Jaguar - MTG Card versions
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Elvish Pioneer - MTG Card versions
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Card Pros

Card Advantage: While the Magus of the Candelabra doesn’t directly draw cards, it offers a unique form of advantage by untapping lands. This can lead to extra draws when paired with lands like Mikokoro, Center of the Sea or other effects that turn lands into card-draw engines. It ensures you keep a full grip of spells while manipulating your mana resources.

Resource Acceleration: This card shines in its ability to accelerate your resources. It has the potential to untap multiple lands for a single mana, effectively multiplying your mana pool. With the right setup, you can generate large amounts of mana in a turn, allowing you to execute high-cost strategies more quickly.

Instant Speed: Magus of the Candelabra’s ability operates at instant speed, which offers strategic flexibility. You can respond to opponents’ actions by untapping lands at unexpected moments, whether it’s to activate abilities, cast surprise spells, or simply bluff holding a response. This can create a significant tactical edge during a match.


Card Cons

Discard Requirement: Magus of the Candelabra does not have a discard requirement, but it’s important to be aware that some players may mistakenly believe there is such a drawback due to its complex ability. This misconception can deter them from making optimal use of the card.

Specific Mana Cost: This card’s cost, {X}{G}, requires at least one green mana, which can limit its inclusion to green-centric or multi-color decks that can reliably generate such mana.

Comparatively High Mana Cost: Despite the versatility of the mana untapping ability, the initial investment and activation cost may make Magus of the Candelabra less mana-efficient in the early game when compared to other mana accelerators available in MTG.


Reasons to Include in Your Collection

Versatility: Magus of the Candelabra is a card that can seamlessly adapt to various deckbuilds, particularly those that need fine-tuned mana manipulation.

Combo Potential: This card can unlock numerous combinations by untapping lands for multi-purpose use, synergizing well with cards that benefits from such interactions.

Meta-Relevance: In a meta where untapping lands could swing the game, Magus of the Candelabra gains significant importance and can be pivotal in turning the tides of a match.


How to beat

Magus of the Candelabra is a unique fixture in Magic: The Gathering deck dynamics. Its ability allows players to untap a number of lands for the cost of what could be seen as nominal. This provides a massive potential for mana acceleration in a game where resources are key. Despite its advantages, overcoming the influence of Magus of the Candelabra is a task that can be approached with the right strategy.

Direct removal spells are the clearest path to ensure the Candelabra’s light is extinguished swiftly. Cards like Murder or Path to Exile can remove Magus from the battlefield before its untapping ability can be abused. Alternatively, counter spells like Cancel or Negate work perfectly to prevent it from even setting foot on the field. Controlling the number of lands your opponent is allowed to have will also limit Magus of the Candelabra’s effectiveness, seeing as there’s a direct correlation between its untapping potential and the land available. Cards that force sacrifices or impose land restrictions can be subtly impactful against a deck relying on Magus’s abilities.

Understanding and interrupting your opponent’s mana base is crucial in Magic, and when it comes to facing Magus of the Candelabra, employing disruption and removal tactics can ensure your victory. Remember, your strategy should adapt as quickly as the game evolves.


BurnMana Recommendations

Embarking on the MTG journey requires more than a handful of cards; it’s about forging a pathway that intertwines skill with the key elements of the game. The Magus of the Candelabra is a testament to the artistic dance between mana manipulation and strategic depth. As you refine your deck and tactical approach, consider the subtle power hidden in cards like this one—ready to transform untapped potential into game-winning plays. Uncertain about integrating this versatile card into your deck? We’re here with insights to amplify your gameplay. Dive into our wellspring of knowledge, where new strategies and card synergies await to enhance your MTG experience.


Where to buy

If you're looking to purchase Magus of the Candelabra MTG card by a specific set like Time Spiral and Battlebond, there are several reliable options to consider. One of the primary sources is your local game store, where you can often find booster packs, individual cards, and preconstructed decks from current and some past sets. They often offer the added benefit of a community where you can trade with other players.

For a broader inventory, particularly of older sets, online marketplaces like TCGPlayer, Card Kingdom and Card Market offer extensive selections and allow you to search for cards from specific sets. Larger e-commerce platforms like eBay and Amazon also have listings from various sellers, which can be a good place to look for sealed product and rare finds.

Additionally, Magic’s official site often has a store locator and retailer lists for finding Wizards of the Coast licensed products. Remember to check for authenticity and the condition of the cards when purchasing, especially from individual sellers on larger marketplaces.

Below is a list of some store websites where you can buy the Magus of the Candelabra and other MTG cards:

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Printings

The Magus of the Candelabra Magic the Gathering card was released in 3 different sets between 2006-10-06 and 2024-06-14. Illustrated by 2 different artists.

#ReleasedNameCodeSymbolNumberFrameLayoutBorderArtist
12006-10-06Time SpiralTSP 2032003NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
22018-06-08BattlebondBBD 2062015NormalBlackTerese Nielsen
32024-06-14Modern Horizons 3 CommanderM3C 2362015NormalBlackJason A. Engle

Legalities

Magic the Gathering formats where Magus of the Candelabra has restrictions

FormatLegality
CommanderLegal
LegacyLegal
ModernLegal
OathbreakerLegal
VintageLegal
DuelLegal
PredhLegal
PennyLegal