A magician holds various things at various times, depending on the trick they are about to perform; top hats, wands, cards, handkerchiefs, and saws are some examples of what a magician holds.
There have been many great magicians over the years. Some of the most famous in the 20th century were Harry Houdini, Thurston, Kellar, Dante, Blackstone (Both Father and son), Doug Henning, Lance...