Doctor Stephen Strange, the Sorcerer Supreme, is one of the most powerful magic users in the Marvel Universe. But his might doesn’t come from spells alone—it’s also drawn from a vast collection of arcane artifacts, each with its own history, purpose, and incredible abilities. These relics aren’t just magical trinkets—they’re cosmic tools that can manipulate time, space, minds, and reality itself. Passed down through centuries of mystic protectors or conjured by ancient forces, these items give Strange the edge he needs against threats that defy logic and reason. Some are deeply tied to the Vishanti, others forged in shadow, and some even come with a dark cost. From timeless amulets to reality-warping tomes, these artifacts are essential not only to Doctor Strange’s identity but to the protection of the entire multiverse. Here are the ten most important artifacts in Doctor Strange’s arsenal—and the mind-blowing powers that make each of them legendary.
#10: The Cloak of Levitation
The Cloak of Levitation is one of Doctor Strange’s most iconic and beloved artifacts—and not just because of its flashy red design. While it might appear to be a simple garment, it’s actually a sentient and enchanted cloak with the ability to fly, respond to Strange’s commands, and even act independently in battle. Originally given to Strange by the Ancient One, the cloak has saved his life more times than he can count, whisking him away from danger, catching him mid-fall, and physically restraining enemies without direct magical input.
What makes the Cloak of Levitation so special isn’t just its utility—it’s the bond it shares with Strange. Unlike most magical items, the cloak seems to have a will of its own and a strong sense of loyalty. In both comics and film, the cloak has been portrayed as a near-sidekick, responding emotionally to threats, protecting Strange from sneak attacks, and even displaying humor or sass in the heat of battle. Its enchantments allow it to move with incredible speed and precision, and it can carry both Strange and others at great distances, making it a versatile form of transportation.
The cloak’s origins are traced back to the Ancient One’s own collection of artifacts, and its power is rumored to be linked to spells of protection and movement cast by the Vishanti themselves. While it doesn’t wield offensive spells, its ability to defy gravity, shield Strange from harm, and maneuver in combat make it invaluable.
More than a weapon or a costume piece, the Cloak of Levitation is a symbol of Doctor Strange’s evolution from arrogant surgeon to protector of reality. It’s often the first artifact he receives, and one of the few he never discards. Its loyalty is as magical as its powers, and it represents the harmony between human will and mystical force that defines Strange himself. Whether soaring through dimensions or wrapping around an enemy mid-spell, the cloak is more than just fabric—it’s a partner in battle.
#9: The Book of the Vishanti
The Book of the Vishanti is often regarded as the most sacred and powerful spellbook in the Marvel Universe—a grimoire of white magic filled with ancient spells, protective incantations, and divine knowledge. Created by the Vishanti—Agamotto, Oshtur, and Hoggoth—this book serves as the ultimate counter to the dark arts found in texts like the Darkhold. Unlike other magical tomes that come with corruption or personal cost, the Book of the Vishanti is a source of pure, benevolent mysticism meant to defend and heal rather than destroy.
The book cannot be accessed by just anyone. It is bound by powerful enchantments that only allow those deemed worthy—typically the Sorcerer Supreme or their appointed guardians—to open its pages. Once unlocked, the book grants knowledge that spans dimensions, offering defensive spells, astral projection techniques, wards against demonic forces, and even resurrection rituals. Doctor Strange often turns to this artifact when facing threats that push beyond normal magical boundaries—especially when he’s battling chaos magic, curses, or demonic invasions.
One of the most critical aspects of the Book of the Vishanti is its balance. It represents the light to the Darkhold’s shadow, and strange has frequently relied on it to reverse corruptive magic or dispel illusions cast by chaotic entities like Dormammu or Mephisto. It has even been used to amplify Strange’s natural power, allowing him to stand toe-to-toe with cosmic forces like Shuma-Gorath or the In-Betweener.
Despite its power, the book does not act on its own. Its knowledge must be interpreted and applied correctly—something only a true master of the mystic arts can do. This places great responsibility on Strange, who must use its wisdom carefully, lest he fail in understanding the consequences of what he casts.
The Book of the Vishanti is more than a spellbook—it’s a moral compass. It exists to remind practitioners of magic that there is a righteous path, even in the face of overwhelming darkness. It holds secrets that could save the multiverse or destroy it in the wrong hands, making it one of Doctor Strange’s most treasured—and protected—possessions.
#8: The Crimson Bands of Cyttorak
The Crimson Bands of Cyttorak are among the most potent binding spells in all of mysticism, and Doctor Strange frequently calls upon them when sheer force isn’t enough to win a battle. Named after the ancient god Cyttorak—the same entity that empowers Juggernaut—the bands are conjured by invoking Cyttorak’s name, allowing Strange to summon unbreakable, glowing red coils that can immobilize even the most powerful foes.
What makes the Crimson Bands especially savage is their near-absolute power. These bands don’t just hold someone—they can restrain beings like the Hulk, Dormammu, and even cosmic deities. They are woven from mystical energy so durable that few spells can break them. Unlike physical chains or barriers, they bypass most conventional defenses and even work in astral form, allowing Strange to bind an opponent’s spirit if needed.
However, these bands don’t come without risk. Since Cyttorak is a malevolent deity, calling upon his power too often or without respect can have consequences. Strange must walk a fine line when invoking the bands, ensuring he doesn’t draw too much attention from Cyttorak himself or become indebted to the entity. This adds a level of danger and complexity to their use—one that makes each summoning a calculated risk.
Strange has used the Crimson Bands in several major showdowns, often as a trump card to shut down overwhelming enemies. When brute strength fails, when a spell goes awry, or when time is of the essence, the bands can turn the tide in seconds. Even foes capable of resisting magic will often find themselves hopelessly entangled.
Beyond raw power, the Crimson Bands also serve a symbolic purpose. They represent control—control over chaos, over opponents, and over Strange’s own reliance on dangerous powers. By mastering them, he demonstrates that even dark magic can be used for good if wielded responsibly.
In the hierarchy of Strange’s artifacts, the Crimson Bands are the iron fist in his mystical arsenal—a last resort that always lands with a thunderous impact.
#7: The Orb of Agamotto
While the Eye of Agamotto might be the more famous artifact, the Orb of Agamotto is equally vital to Doctor Strange’s role as a defender of reality. This large, glowing crystal sphere is housed in the Sanctum Sanctorum and serves as a surveillance device, mystical radar, and multiversal window all in one. If there’s a ripple in reality, a demonic incursion, or an interdimensional invasion brewing, the Orb is likely the first tool Strange consults.
Created by Agamotto himself, the Orb allows Strange to observe distant realms, spy on enemies, and even peer through barriers that block physical or astral perception. It acts like a sorcerer’s security system—letting Strange monitor the Earth’s magical integrity and alerting him to sudden shifts in mystical energy. Whether he’s watching Dormammu in the Dark Dimension or scanning for magical outbreaks on Earth, the Orb gives Strange eyes where none should see.
One of the Orb’s most powerful features is its ability to project visions. Strange can summon illusions, messages, or echoes of the past using the Orb. In certain storylines, it has even allowed him to access information buried in time or locked behind magical wards. He has also used it to help train apprentices, providing them with visual insight into mystical threats.
But like most artifacts tied to the Vishanti, the Orb demands respect. It cannot be used for petty observation or selfish gain. Strange must guard against obsession—it’s easy to become a watcher rather than a doer, peering into potential futures rather than acting in the present. Moreover, some entities can sense when the Orb is being used to spy on them—and strike back.
Despite these limitations, the Orb remains essential. It’s not a weapon, but a guide—proof that knowledge is Strange’s first line of defense. When wielded wisely, it can prevent catastrophes before they occur. In a world where perception defines power, the Orb of Agamotto ensures Strange always sees what others cannot.
#6: The Wand of Watoomb
The Wand of Watoomb is one of the most potent magical relics in Doctor Strange’s collection, often used when raw magical amplification is required. Named after the powerful and mysterious being Watoomb, the wand functions as a magical conduit, allowing the wielder to channel and magnify their spells to devastating effect. While Strange is already a master of mystical arts, the Wand of Watoomb takes his sorcery to the next level—doubling or even tripling the potency of spells cast through it.
Physically, the wand is ornate, with curling, twisted prongs and an otherworldly design that seems to glow with internal energy. It acts as a kind of magical battery, capable of storing vast amounts of power and releasing it in concentrated bursts. When wielded by Doctor Strange, the wand can be used to deflect magical attacks, open interdimensional portals, or overwhelm foes with blasts of arcane force. It has even been shown to manipulate time and space in specific instances, making it incredibly versatile and dangerous in the right hands.
In battles against powerful foes—such as Dormammu, Mephisto, or cosmic entities—the wand serves as a crucial tool for countering overwhelming odds. It doesn’t just enhance Strange’s offense; it also strengthens defensive spells and shields, helping him endure attacks that would otherwise crush most sorcerers. It’s been a mainstay in many of Strange’s most desperate fights, often summoned when the usual spells aren’t enough.
However, the wand isn’t without its limitations. Because it draws upon Watoomb’s essence, overuse can attract the attention of otherworldly beings—especially if the wielder pushes its limits. Additionally, while the wand enhances power, it doesn’t grant control. A novice might lose themselves in the energy surge, accidentally destroying more than they intended. For that reason, Strange typically wields the wand sparingly, bringing it out only in extreme scenarios.
Its presence in the Sanctum Sanctorum signifies more than just a magical weapon—it’s a declaration that Strange is prepared for multidimensional warfare. As one of the most powerful implements in his arsenal, the Wand of Watoomb embodies pure magical force. Whether sealing off a collapsing reality or firing a barrage of spells in a war of sorcerers, the wand is proof that sometimes, the best defense against mystical annihilation is overwhelming magical firepower.
#5: The Seal of the Vishanti
The Seal of the Vishanti is a sacred symbol and mystical artifact that often appears carved into Doctor Strange’s Sanctum Sanctorum, adorning his tomes and gateways, and etched into protective barriers. But it’s more than just a symbol—it’s a living enchantment bestowed by the three cosmic entities known as the Vishanti. When invoked, the Seal offers Doctor Strange divine protection, wards off evil, and reinforces the barriers between realms.
While it isn’t a flashy weapon like the Wand of Watoomb or the Crimson Bands, the Seal of the Vishanti plays a foundational role in maintaining the structural integrity of magical defenses. It can be projected as a shield, etched onto surfaces to prevent possession or corruption, or even activated to dispel incoming dark magic. In some stories, it’s been used to lock away dangerous artifacts or bind demonic entities that would otherwise be unstoppable.
The seal’s true power lies in its connection to the Vishanti themselves. When Strange invokes the Seal, he’s calling upon the authority of Agamotto, Oshtur, and Hoggoth—a trio of godlike beings that represent order, wisdom, and protection. Through their favor, Strange can hold back entities that would normally dwarf him in raw power. This is why demons, spirits, and even gods tread lightly around a spell protected by the Seal of the Vishanti.
Perhaps most importantly, the seal serves as a barrier between dimensions. Doctor Strange uses it to prevent breaches from other realms—such as the Dark Dimension—where threats like Dormammu constantly seek to invade. In several key battles, Strange has reinforced entire cities or realms using the seal, keeping the multiverse from unraveling.
Visually, the Seal of the Vishanti resembles a stylized, eye-like pattern or an arcane sigil depending on the depiction. Its appearance in media and comics has become synonymous with magic itself. But to those who know its meaning, it represents the sacred pact between sorcerer and cosmos—a line in the sand that dark forces dare not cross.
Though it rarely takes center stage in combat, the Seal of the Vishanti is one of Strange’s most powerful tools. It proves that true strength doesn’t always come from destruction—sometimes, it comes from holding the line.
#4: The Eye of Agamotto
Perhaps the most recognizable of all Doctor Strange’s relics, the Eye of Agamotto is more than just a glowing amulet—it’s one of the most powerful magical artifacts in existence. Originally crafted by Agamotto, the first Sorcerer Supreme and a member of the Vishanti, the Eye functions as both a mystical detector and a weapon of enlightenment. In some universes and interpretations, it even contains the Time Stone, though in the comics, its power is largely separate from the Infinity Stones.
The Eye of Agamotto is most commonly used to reveal the truth. It can expose illusions, unravel deception, and show the true nature of beings or objects. Doctor Strange has used it to detect possessions, see through alternate realities, and even uncover hidden memories. The Eye is an embodiment of light magic and order, and it often glows when in the presence of evil.
Its offensive capabilities are less direct, but no less impressive. The Eye can unleash powerful beams of light that stun or burn malevolent beings, and it can amplify other spells strange casts through it. It also grants protection—creating barriers of pure magical force, or cleansing areas corrupted by dark influences. In some depictions, it can even allow time manipulation, though this is usually tied to its cinematic interpretation more than the core comics.
One of the Eye’s most fascinating properties is that it can only be used by someone deemed morally worthy. It responds to will, wisdom, and clarity of purpose. If wielded by someone with corrupt intentions, it will either deactivate or resist them. This built-in ethical safeguard makes it one of the few truly incorruptible magical items in the Marvel Universe.
Beyond function, the Eye is a symbol. It sits at the center of Strange’s chest, representing his role as guardian of truth, balance, and reality. It’s not just a source of power—it’s a badge of trust between the Vishanti and their champion. When Strange wears the Eye, he carries the weight of magical justice, and those who stand in darkness feel its gaze before they feel its power.
#3: The Sling Ring
Though it may seem simple compared to reality-warping books and dimension-bending staffs, the Sling Ring is one of the most vital artifacts in Doctor Strange’s arsenal. Used by nearly all practitioners trained in the mystic arts at Kamar-Taj, the Sling Ring allows its wielder to open portals through space and time by channeling magical energy. Its value lies in its precision, versatility, and its role as the backbone of the sorcerer’s mobility—and in Strange’s hands, it’s become a tool of both strategy and survival.
Functionally, the Sling Ring allows for instantaneous travel between two points across great distances. Doctor Strange has used it to cross continents, enter different dimensions, and even escape collapsing realities. What separates the Sling Ring from conventional teleportation spells is its intuitive responsiveness—it amplifies the user’s mental focus and connects their energy with the fabric of the multiverse. By rotating the ring-wearing hand in circular motion, the user can literally cut a portal into space itself, creating a golden, circular gateway.
But the ring’s power goes beyond just travel. Doctor Strange has used it mid-combat to redirect enemies, trap dangerous entities, and rescue allies in peril. In the heat of battle, Strange can open a portal beneath a foe, sending them hurtling through dimensions—or drop a ring behind himself to make a narrow escape from certain death. It’s also been used to manipulate environmental factors, like bringing in fire from one location or water from another to affect the battlefield. This tactical usage makes the Sling Ring a favorite in Strange’s toolkit.
While many sorcerers use Sling Rings, Strange’s mastery is exceptional. He’s used the ring in more creative and high-pressure scenarios than most, including splitting timelines, synchronizing multi-user portal attacks, and even sustaining temporary wormholes during multiversal crises. The Sling Ring requires intense focus, and young practitioners often struggle with fear and doubt when learning to wield it. Strange’s ability to use it under extreme duress—while injured, mid-flight, or while casting other spells—demonstrates just how advanced his connection with the ring has become.
Though not inherently offensive, the Sling Ring has indirectly saved Earth and the multiverse countless times. Without it, Strange would be unable to reach the Dark Dimension, escape a magical trap, or rally allies across realms. It’s the quintessential magical utility—reliable, fast, and full of strategic depth. In a world where timing and movement can mean the difference between salvation and obliteration, the Sling Ring is a humble but irreplaceable artifact. Its portability and potential make it one of the most important tools in Doctor Strange’s possession.
#2: The Sanctum Sanctorum
Though not a handheld artifact, the Sanctum Sanctorum itself is one of Doctor Strange’s most potent magical resources—and in many ways, a living weapon. Located at 177A Bleecker Street in New York City, this mystical mansion is far more than a base of operations. The Sanctum is imbued with ancient enchantments, dimensional protections, and magical intelligence that make it a stronghold against supernatural threats and a repository for artifacts that could end the universe if left unchecked.
The Sanctum was originally constructed on a powerful mystical convergence point, and over the years, it has been layered with defensive wards, spatial expansions, and reality-bending rooms that defy physics. Inside, one can find enchanted vaults, ever-changing hallways, traps that respond to intruders, and portals to other dimensions. It’s essentially a labyrinth of magic, designed to contain threats and safeguard the multiverse.
Strange relies on the Sanctum’s protections regularly. The structure has withstood attacks from Dormammu, Mephisto, Baron Mordo, and countless demonic hordes. Its defenses activate automatically sealing doors, triggering energy fields, or even manipulating time within its walls to protect inhabitants. The house itself often moves objects, hides rooms, or rearranges spaces to confound enemies. In some cases, it even appears to possess sentient will—guiding allies or deceiving attackers.
Perhaps most importantly, the Sanctum serves as a magical nerve center. It holds dozens of dangerous relics including the Purple Gem of Cyttorak, the Cauldron of the Cosmos, and even copies of ancient forbidden texts. Strange often conducts rituals, astral projections, and interdimensional research from within its walls. It’s not just a place—it’s an ally, an armory, and a last line of defense.
The Sanctum’s significance cannot be overstated. Without it, Strange would lack both the strategic vantage and protective foundation he needs to operate at the level he does. It’s more than a building—it’s the heart of Earth’s mystical protection. If the Eye of Agamotto is Strange’s badge of power, then the Sanctum Sanctorum is the fortress that ensures his survival. In battles where even gods have failed, the Sanctum has stood firm.
#1: The Darkhold
At the very top of the list lies the most dangerous, corruptive, and consequential artifact Doctor Strange has ever encountered: the Darkhold. Also known as the Book of Sins, the Darkhold is an ancient tome of dark magic authored by the elder god Chthon, a primordial entity who embodies chaos and evil. The Darkhold contains the complete knowledge of chaos magic, making it both a limitless source of power and a ticking time bomb in the wrong hands.
While Doctor Strange does not “own” the Darkhold in the traditional sense, he has interacted with it in several major storylines—sometimes to seal it away, sometimes to resist its influence, and occasionally to use it in dire circumstances. Every time Strange touches the book, it exacts a cost. The Darkhold corrupts the mind, erodes morality, and slowly turns its user into a vessel for Chthon’s will. And yet, when the multiverse is on the brink, Strange has turned to it—knowing full well what it could do to him.
The Darkhold grants the ability to rewrite reality, summon elder demons, raise the dead, and destroy dimensional barriers. Its spells defy natural law, allowing sorcerers to manipulate time, consciousness, and fate itself. Even Strange’s vast knowledge is often tested by its contents, which constantly shift and respond to the reader’s desires and fears. When Wanda Maximoff (Scarlet Witch) used the book, the cost was enormous leading to possession, madness, and widespread devastation.
Doctor Strange’s encounters with the Darkhold have led to some of his darkest moments. In alternate realities, such as What If…? Doctor Strange Lost His Heart Instead of His Hands? , we’ve seen what happens when he gives in to the temptation of forbidden magic: the destruction of his universe and his own descent into monstrosity. These cautionary tales reflect the true terror of the Darkhold—its ability to twist noble intentions into catastrophic consequences.
The Darkhold isn’t just a book—it’s a character. A living embodiment of corruption and knowledge. Doctor Strange’s relationship with it is one of the most precarious in his entire history. He must always be aware of its existence, always guard against its resurgence, and always be willing to destroy it, even at great cost.
It is the ultimate test of will and restraint. And in a world where even the Sorcerer Supreme can falter, the Darkhold remains the one artifact capable of unmaking everything he stands for.
Doctor Strange’s strength isn’t just in his incantations—it lies in the artifacts he protects, wields, and resists. Each relic carries immense power, often with heavy responsibility or terrifying risk. From the enlightening Eye of Agamotto to the reality-warping Darkhold, these artifacts shape the fate of the multiverse and define the Sorcerer Supreme’s legacy. In the world of magic, tools are more than weapons—they are mirrors of the soul. And the way Strange uses (or resists) them is what truly makes him Marvel’s greatest mystic.
