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Unicycle

Maker Unknown (German)

Dateca. 1940

Periodn/a

MediumMetal, rubber, leather

DimensionsOverall: 82 × 22 in. (208.3 × 55.9 cm)

ClassificationsTools and Equipment

Credit LineGift of Julie Herwig in memory of Walter Heinze, 2013

Object numberSN11371.2

[Feb. 2020 installation] Unknown maker, German Unicycle, circa 1940 SN11371.2 Gift of Julie Herwig in memory of Walter Heinze, 2013 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.

On View

On view