RISD museum highlights the allure of the circus

RISD museum celebrates the circus.

From The January-February 2015 Issue

James Tissot’s painting, <i>Ladies of the Chariots</i>

James Tissot’s painting, Ladies of the Chariots | Courtesy of RISD Museum

Visit the exhibition website

RISD Museum
Providence, Rhode Island
Through February 22

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.

Published in the January-February 2015 print issue under the headline “Circus Art,” in the Harvard Squared section.

Most popular

To Promote Healthy Habits in Patients, Start with the Doctors

Why Harvard Medical School is training physicians to think more like coaches

Harvard Law School Announces $31.4 Million Donation

The school’s largest-ever gift comes after a year of record fundraising.

How Philosophy at Harvard Saved Itself

As humanities shrink across higher education, one department is flourishing. Is its success a fluke, or a roadmap?

House - Email

Explore More From Current Issue

St. Peter's Basilica at sunset, illuminated by purple and orange sky reflections in the river.

Alumni

For advocacy and benevolence, three late alumni are reportedly in line for the Catholic Church’s highest honor.

A man with a long beard and formal attire stands next to a chalkboard with an equation.

Harvard History

Two tales of University greats—and an encounter with a Tiger

Illuminated hanging sculptures resembling organic forms, casting warm light in a dim space.

Arts & Culture

Artists Enzo Camacho and Ami Lien turn a colonial symbol from Cambodia inside out.