Barnum & Bailey: Cleopatra
Maker
The Strobridge Lithographing Company
(American, 1867 – 1960)
Date1912
MediumInk on paper
Dimensions1 sheet (H): 30 x 40 in. (76.2 x 101.6 cm)
ClassificationsPosters
Credit LineTibbals Circus Collection
Object numberht2000314
The 1912 spectacle Cleopatra was billed as a 1,250-person production. Advertising the cast size was a ploy to enhance the perceived magnificence of the performance. Cleopatra followed the format of other specs, which usually featured a ballet, a march, and at least one battle scene. Rich costumes enhanced its exotic appeal. The libretto for Cleopatra focused on describing the performance rather than familiarizing audiences with the great Egyptian queen.
On View
Not on viewThe Strobridge Lithographing Company
1903