"A Free Look"
c 1950. Gelatin silver print mounted on board, 9 1/2 x 7 1/2 in. (241 x 190 mm) from the Roland Butler Collection, Press Agent, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus (1930s-1960s) Roland Butler Collection hand stamp on verso.
"The world of the circus is a world of mystery, excitement, apprehension and thrills, all rolled into one. For children, the wonder of the circus is best experienced sitting in the dark, eyes wide, a tingle of excitement shivering up the spine. For adults, that magic is magnified by a behind-the-scenes look at the circus in all its glitter and glory.
And, of course, there were the animals. An old circus poster from 1879 depicting zebras, lions, tigers, giraffes, elephants and other animals quotes Genesis: "And God said, let us make man after our own image, and give him dominion over every living thing that moveth" -- a sentiment the circus has always taken to heart. For a long time every circus featured at least a few lions, elephants and other animals trained to perform tricks for the amusement of the public."
"A Century of The Circus, Preserved" By Harriet Brown The New York Times May 15, 1994
Tongue-in-cheek title "A Free Look". A somewhat loving look at women's backsides while peering under big top circus tent.
Condition: Very good +.
Item number: 3
Price: $175.00
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