Clowning Collection

Always the Clown. Middlesbrough 1970s 1970s

From comedy to tragedy (colour litho)
2809287 From comedy to tragedy (colour litho) by Beltrame, Achille (1871-1945); Private Collection; (add.info.: From comedy to tragedy)

Marceline the Droll, the London Hippodromes clown
Marceline, the popular clown at the London Hippodrome, where he famously influenced the young Charlie Chaplin when they appeared together in the Hippodromes first pantomime, Cinderella

Jack-in-the-Green - a May-day scene sixty years ago (ie c 1830) (engraving)
560251 Jack-in-the-Green - a May-day scene sixty years ago (ie c 1830) (engraving) by Green, Charles (1840-98); Private Collection; (add.info)

A pair of clowns (colour photo)
3094165 A pair of clowns (colour photo) by French Photographer, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: A pair of clowns. Postcard, early 20th century. Signeds I P.); © Look and Learn

A pair of clowns (colour photo)
3094167 A pair of clowns (colour photo) by French Photographer, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: A pair of clowns. Postcard, early 20th century. Signeds I P.); © Look and Learn

Paulos Circus, Calcot, Berkshire, October 1985

Banking Expressions Illustrated - A Good Balance. The reverse message for this card rather wonderfully reads: " What Ho!" Date: 1904

Four Seal-point Siamese kittens (Felis sylvestris catus) playing with a woollen scarf, one sticking its tongue out

Two kittens, one lying on back, the other on top looking at camera, engaged in playful fight

Clowning Around
A clown pulls a funny face! Date: 1930s

Illustration of a French conjuror and clown with crowd
Coloured illustration of a French conjuror and clown with crowd, circa 1800. HPG/8/2/1 (iv)

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"Always the Clown: A Glimpse into Middlesbrough's 1970s Circus Scene" Step right up and enter the whimsical world of clowning. From comedy to tragedy, this captivating art form has been enchanting audiences for centuries. Take a journey back in time as we explore some iconic moments in the history of clowning. In the vibrant streets of Middlesbrough during the 1970s, "Always the Clown" was a beloved figure who brought joy to both young and old. His colorful antics and infectious laughter filled hearts with delight, leaving lasting memories for all who encountered him. From Marceline the Droll at London Hippodromes to Jack-in-the-Green's May-day scene sixty years ago, these clowns painted an unforgettable picture of merriment and mischief. Through mesmerizing lithographs and engravings, their performances transformed from simple entertainment into profound expressions of human emotion. A pair of clowns captured in vivid color photos remind us that behind every painted smile lies a complex range of feelings. These talented performers skillfully balanced humor with vulnerability, evoking empathy from their audience. Banking Expressions Illustrated - A Good Balance perfectly encapsulates how clowns masterfully navigate between chaos and order. Their ability to find equilibrium amidst life's ups and downs is truly remarkable. Join us under Paulos Circus' big top in Calcot, Berkshire during October 1985 as we witness firsthand how these jesters captivate crowds with their acrobatics, slapstick humor, and heartwarming interactions. The magic they create transcends boundaries – transporting spectators into a land where oddities become extraordinary wonders. As Shakespeare once wrote in The Tempest: "We are such stuff as dreams are made on. " Clowns embody this sentiment by transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences through their boundless imagination. So let us celebrate these timeless entertainers who have dedicated themselves to spreading laughter and joy.