Circus: Prints, Drawings, and Photographs illustrates the charms and thrills of this traveling entertainment during its heyday in Europe and America. The first modern circus appeared in London in 1768; another would debut in Newport, Rhode Island. Each offered equestrian feats. As the phenomenon grew, especially between 1850 and 1950, other animals, acrobats, clowns, and “freaks” were added. At RISD, James Tissot’s Ladies of the Chariots (circa 1883-85, above), renders circus mythology, while The Nightmare of the White Elephant (1947), by Henri Matisse, captures the dynamism of the center ring.
RISD museum highlights the allure of the circus
RISD museum highlights the allure of the circus
RISD museum celebrates the circus.
Explore More From Current Issue
Open Book: A New Nuclear Age
Harvard historian Serhii Plokhy’s latest book looks at the rising danger of a new arms race.
A Forgotten Harvard Anthem
Published the year the Titanic sank, “Harvard’s Best” is a quizzical ode to the University.
A Near-Perfect Football Season Ends in Disappointment
A loss to Villanova derails Harvard in the playoffs.