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Off-set Unicycle

Maker Evert O. Gustafsson

Datec. 1950

Periodn/a

MediumSteel, rubber, leather

DimensionsOverall (Approx.): 103 1/2 × 26 3/4 × 20 1/4 in. (262.9 × 67.9 × 51.4 cm)

ClassificationsProps

Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Evert O. Gustafsson, 2005

Object numberSN11138.2

[Feb 2020 installation] Unknown maker, American Off-set Unicycle, circa 1950 SN11138.2 Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Evert O. Gustafsson At the heart of all circus acts is a performer willing to push the limits of what seems possible. Ever since bicycles became widely available during the mid 19th century, performers have challenged themselves to develop complex tricks and to evolve the shape of their cycles to increase the difficulty and showcase their skills. The challenge of a unicycle is magnified with every increase in height as the body’s center of gravity moves higher. The upright unicycle was used by Walter Heinze, one of a trio of unicyclists who performed a choreographed routine of dance on these tall cycles. Their act originated in Germany but toured throughout Europe and was featured on Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey from 1941 to 1943. The off-set unicycle was ridden by Evert Gustafsson, who presented a “Thrills on Wheels” act with his wife Evy. They performed on the Ed Sullivan show and with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey from 1954 to 1955. Evert O. Gustafsson performed one of the world's most unusual unicycle act - an off-balanced unicycle and wheels of different heights. He and his wife performed for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, 1954-1955, and appeared on the Ed Sullivan TV Show.

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