# 2017 Magic: The Gathering Ixalan #248

> The Sorcerous Spyglass, a foil rare artifact card from the 2017 Magic: The Gathering Ixalan expansion, designed to disrupt opponent strategies through hand inspection.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2017
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: Ixalan
- **Card number**: #248
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

As a rare card bearing the number 248, this foil edition stands out for its shimmering finish and strategic depth. Designed by artist Kieran Yanner, the card represents a significant piece of the Ixalan (XLN) set's identity, appealing to collectors who value both aesthetic finish and mechanical utility. In gameplay, the Sorcerous Spyglass offers a powerful control mechanism. When played, it allows the controller to view an opponent’s hand and select any card name. Once chosen, it prevents opponents from activating abilities from sources with that name, excluding mana abilities. This interaction creates a dynamic layer of strategy, forcing opponents to play around the spyglass’s chosen target. For collectors, this card is often sought after for its role in competitive decks and its place within the broader Ixalan storyline. Whether you are building a collection of rare artifacts or focusing on foil treatments from the Ixalan era, the Sorcerous Spyglass represents a tangible connection to this pivotal expansion. Its foil variant adds a layer of visual appeal that complements its mechanical strength, making it a favorite among those who appreciate the artistry and strategy of the trading card game. Collectors often view this card as an essential component for completing their Ixalan artifact collections or for adding a unique disruptive tool to their library.

## FAQ

### What type of card is Sorcerous Spyglass?

Sorcerous Spyglass is a rare artifact card from the 2017 Magic: The Gathering Ixalan expansion. It has a mana cost of two and is identified by card number 248 in the set.

### What does Sorcerous Spyglass do in gameplay?

As the card enters play, you look at an opponent's hand and choose a card name. Then, while Sorcerous Spyglass is on the battlefield, activated abilities of sources with that chosen name cannot be activated unless they are mana abilities.

### Is the foil version of Sorcerous Spyglass rarer than the non-foil?

Both foil and non-foil versions exist within the Ixalan set. The foil variant is often preferred by collectors for its visual finish, while both share the same rarity level and game mechanics.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.