Artwork

Sanger's Circus

Sanger's Circus, by Unknown, photographic, 1850
Sanger's Circus, by Unknown, photographic, 1850

Sanger's Circus is a photographic photography by Unknown. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Sanger's Circus is a late 19th-century photograph capturing a group of circus performers. The image is associated with Sanger's Circus, a prominent entertainment entity of the time.

Subject & Meaning

The performers are likely dressed for a circus parade, a spectacle that announced the circus's arrival in town. The costumes include cowboy and Native American attire, accompanied by horses, elephants, and caged wild animals, highlighting the diverse acts within the circus.

Technique & Style

The photograph presents a snapshot of the performers, with Mademoiselle Yetta, a high-wire artist, identifiable in the second row from the right. The image conveys the visual spectacle of the circus parade.

History & Provenance

Originally owned by Mademoiselle Yetta, the photograph is now part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection. Yetta later became a variety performer, appearing at the London Coliseum in 1920.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known