Celestial Purge

Celestial Purge was introduced in the Magic 2010 core set, released in July 2009. This set marked a significant shift for the game, as it was the first core set to include new card designs rather than relying entirely on reprints from previous expansions. The card was designed to provide white-aligned decks with a versatile, efficient removal tool capable of exiling troublesome black or red permanents, fitting into the thematic balance of the color wheel during that era of gameplay.

The artwork was commissioned from illustrator David Palumbo, who captured a striking, ethereal moment of cleansing energy. Palumbo’s piece was intended to emphasize the card's function as a definitive banishment of dark forces. Upon release, the card was well-received by the competitive community for its utility in both main decks and sideboards, becoming a staple tool for players looking to mitigate the specific threats posed by aggressive black and red strategies in various formats.