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
A Harvard Astrophysicist Explains the Bizarre Behavior of a Supergiant Star
The dimming and rapid rotation of Betelgeuse may be caused by a hidden companion.
The Framer Who Refused to Sign the Constitution
Harvard’s Elbridge Gerry helped draft the U.S. Constitution, but worried it might create a new monarch.