Vintage Barnum & Bailey Circus Poster, "Jupiter" the Balloon Horse (1909-1910)

Lithographic poster in colors, 1909/10, printed by Strobridge Litho, Cincinnati, framed.

Sight size 29 1/2 x 39 1/4 in.; Frame dimensions 41 x 31 1/4 in.

This early and important Barnum & Bailey Circus poster features the famous horse, Jupiter, as he and his rider appear to float to the top of the three-ring circus tent via hot air balloon. A pulley system was used to facilitate this stunt, and because the circus was performed at night, the crowd could not see the wires and the performers appeared to be floating.

Such an act was fitting for an era fascinated with movement and gravity: the Wright Brothers' first flight took place six years prior in 1903, and English Channel swimming became a popular challenge starting in the late nineteenth century.

Condition A-: Colors are strong and vibrant; few unobtrusive repaired tears; some light toning; not examined out of frame.