'The Parade of Fairground Wrestlers' - Modern French School (Early 20th Century)

'The Parade of Fairground Wrestlers', India ink on art paper, Modern French School (early 1900s). Traveling shows often held promotional events before opening in local areas to generate enthusiasm for the spectacle. This is an intriguing depiction of the various acts on stage strutting their stuff before an audience of potential customers. On the platform, fairground wrestlers mix with clowns, dancers, a percussionist in bolero hat and the odd costumed characters as well. The quality of drawing is compelling and amusing, bringing to life a scene from a long-forgotten era. This is all at once a charming work of art and a recorded slice of history. Given its age, the artwork is in good vintage condition, has been newly framed and glazed. The artist's initials are visible in the upper left hand corner: 'KL'. Please see the many photos accompanying the listing. Upon request a video may be provided.

After the Industrial Revolution, societies saw a rise in the number of people moving from rural areas into more urban areas for work. This gave birth to a new phenomenon of the typical fun fair and fairground attractions as a social activity and entertainment. Between 1850 and the early 1900s fairgrounds became a part of industrialised society where people could go and enjoy themselves and escape the normal difficulties and pressures of everyday life. These fun fairs were seen as a reflection of the desires of the people looking for enchantment and extreme indulgence. 

Dimensions with frame:

H 36 cm / 14.2"

W 36 cm / 14.2"

Dimensions without frame:

H 19.5 cm / 7.7"

W 19.5 cm / 7.7"