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

Harvard Weathers a Year of Turmoil

The federal government has launched unprecedented actions against the University. Here’s a guide.

Harvard’s Class of 2029 Reflects Shifts in Racial Makeup After Affirmative Action Ends

International students continue to enroll amid political uncertainty; mandatory SATs lead to a drop in applications.

Lafayette’s Unexpected Gift to George Washington: Pheasants

The two birds will be on display at Harvard this summer.

House - Email

Explore More From Current Issue

University Hall with steps and the John Harvard statue, surrounded by trees and a grassy lawn.

University News

Long-discussed reorganization includes layoffs and the end of the Dudley Community.

Three hands hold smartphones displaying social media profiles with likes and hearts.

Tell us about how social media impacts your daily life.

A football player in a white jersey evades a defender in a green uniform on the field.

Football

Despite personnel losses, Crimson captain Xaviah Bascon is upbeat about the 2026 season.