The 1999 Magic: The Gathering Mercadian Masques card Distorting Lens is a rare artifact that allows you to change a permanent's color until end of turn.
Distorting Lens
1999 • Magic: The Gathering • Mercadian Masques
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Price History
$1.49
Description
Distorting Lens enters the Mercadian Masques expansion as card number 293, standing out as a rare artifact within the 1999 release. Crafted by artist Glen Angus, this piece of game history offers players a unique strategic tool that transcends standard mana mechanics. The card’s functionality is deceptively simple yet powerful in diverse gameplay scenarios. By paying two mana, a player can tap the artifact to target any permanent on the battlefield, changing its color to their choice until the end of the turn. This flexibility opens up avenues for interaction that standard color removal or protection spells simply cannot match, allowing for clever manipulations of opponent strategies or temporary enhancements to one's own board state. The flavor text accompanying the card hints at the eccentric nature of the Magistrate, suggesting a distorted perspective of reality that aligns perfectly with the card’s name and effect. This thematic consistency is a hallmark of the Mercadian Masques set, which is beloved by collectors for its cohesive aesthetic and innovative gameplay mechanics. For those building a collection of rare artifacts from this era, Distorting Lens represents a key component of the set's identity. Collectors often seek out this card to complete their Mercadian Masques sets, appreciating its role as both a strategic asset and a collectible item. The rarity designation adds to its appeal, making it a sought-after item for enthusiasts of the Magic: The Gathering trading card game. Whether for competitive play or archival purposes, this card remains a testament to the enduring creativity of the game's design team.
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Card Details
The catalog profile below summarizes the card identity, featured subject, and notable collectible traits.
Catalog Profile
The core identity of the card within the set.
Featured Subject
The subject, team, league, and sport context tied to this card.
Featured
Distorting Lens
Game
Magic: The Gathering
TCG Attributes
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Rare
Glen Angus
Card Stock
English
{2}
Artifact
Card Text
Abilities, attacks, oracle text, and flavor text printed on the card.
{T}: Target permanent becomes the color of your choice until end of turn.
The magistrate seems to prefer a distorted perspective of reality.








