Flying Carpet

Flying Carpet made its debut in the original Magic: The Gathering Alpha set in 1993, designed by Richard Garfield as part of the game's initial exploration of legendary artifacts inspired by folklore. The card was intended to provide a unique utility for creature combat, allowing players to grant the flying ability to non-flying creatures at a cost. The artwork for the Seventh Edition printing, which features the card with the collector number 297, was illustrated by Brian Snoddy. His design leans into the classic high-fantasy aesthetic associated with the Arabian Nights-inspired concepts that influenced the game's early identity.

By the time of the Seventh Edition release in 2001, the card was part of the core set, which functioned as a foundation for newer players to learn the mechanics of artifact interaction. Snoddy’s depiction captures a sense of wonder and kinetic energy, staying consistent with the card's function while offering a refined visual update for the modern era. While it never became a staple in professional competitive play, the card remains a sentimental fixture for long-time collectors who appreciate the transition of early Magic artwork into the standardized framing of the core set era.