Steven Ashe

Mandrake of Oxford, established in 1986 as Golden Dawn Publications, is a specialized independent publisher based in England. The company, which adopted the name Mandrake in 1988 following the release of 'Sexual Magick' by Katon Shual (a pseudonym for founder Mogg Morgan), focuses on practical guides for occult practitioners. Their publishing catalog encompasses a range of subjects including Hermeticism, magick, occulture, Qabalah, sex magic, tantra, and Thelema.

Mogg Morgan, the founder, named the press in homage to Aleister Crowley and has expressed a preference for publishing emerging writers who contribute to the development of the Thelemic tradition. Mandrake is also recognized for publishing German occultist Jan Fries and for producing a peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the academic study of magic. A significant publication by Mandrake was Aleister Crowley's 'The Equinox, Volume I, Number 1 to 10' in 1992.

Mogg Morgan initiated Mandrake of Oxford in 1986, initially under the name Golden Dawn Publications. The shift to the Mandrake name occurred in 1988, coinciding with the publication of 'Sexual Magick' by Katon Shual, a pen name for Morgan himself. This rebranding marked a significant step for the independent press, which is based in Oxford, England. The publisher has since carved out a niche by focusing on "hands-on" books aimed at individuals actively engaged in occult practices. Morgan's intention behind the name was an explicit nod to Aleister Crowley, reflecting a connection to specific esoteric lineages and interests. This foundation set the stage for Mandrake's future direction in esoteric publishing.

Mandrake of Oxford is distinguished by its commitment to publishing works within the esoteric and occult spectrum. Their catalog prominently features texts covering Hermeticism, a diverse range of magickal practices, occulture, Qabalah, sex magic, and Tantra, alongside the philosophy of Thelema. The press aims to provide accessible yet in-depth material for practitioners. Beyond individual books, Mandrake has also engaged in periodical publications, including a peer-reviewed journal focused on the academic study of magic, which ran for five issues. They are also known for publishing the works of German occultist Jan Fries, highlighting their engagement with contemporary figures in the occult field.