Acrobats and Clowns
Artist
Frans De Vos
(Belgian, 1880 – 1936)
Datec. 1900
Periodn/a
Mediumoil on canvas, mounted on wooden support bars
Dimensions111 1/2 x 105 in. (283.2 x 266.7 cm)
ClassificationsPaintings
Credit LineGift of Howard and Janice Tibbals, 2005
Object numberSN11134.4
During the turn of the 20th century, Frans De Vos painted scenic backgrounds in Balegem in the northern part of Belgium. Born into a family of traveling actors and performers, the artist was well aware of the conventions of portraying performance. In a series of four banners once used to promote the features of a small circus, De Vos depicted acrobatic and comedic acts placed within seasonal garden settings.
The banners emphasize the extraordinary strength, balance, and styling of the performers. The images also contrast the graceful movement of the acrobats, as indicated in the dotted lines around the top figure, with the absurd antics of the comedian below.
Over years, each of these banners was repeatedly patched and stitched together. When finally pulled from use, they were stored and saved rather than discarded or destroyed. Thanks to the work of skilled conservators, the work of Frans De Vos, an outstanding designer of backgrounds and circus facades, can be enjoyed and appreciated again.
Acts left to right: adagio balancing act; clown; bar act; comic contortionist; and clown. De Vos signature is in the upper right hand corner.
On View
On view
