1902 Barnum & Bailey Circus Poster With Giraffes | Courmont Frères France

Description

An original poster from Barnum and Bailey's first and only European tour, which lasted five years between 1897-1902. This poster … more An original poster from Barnum and Bailey's first and only European tour, which lasted five years between 1897-1902. This poster specifically advertises a show in Rochefort, France, on June 2nd of 1902, and was printed in Paris by Courmont Frères. As such, it is an authentic and collectible piece of French Belle Epoque poster ephemera of the time.

The poster depicts two giraffes with palms in the distance, in desaturated, soft tones of mustard yellow, cream, taupe, olive green, pale blue, and plum, with a bold, lower text in red. The poster is framed behind acrylic to protect the antique paper of 120+ years old. The upper text written in English reads - Barnum & Bailey's Greatest Show on Earth.

Text translation of lower banner, French to English:

La seule paire de Girafes vivantes du monde figurant dans une Exhibition - The only pair of living Giraffes in the world appearing in an Exhibition.

Un jour seulement mercredi Juin 4 - One day only Wednesday June 4th

Deux representations a 2 heures ouverture des portes a midi 1/2 and et 6 heures 1/2
Two performances at 2 a.m. doors open at 12:30 and 6:30

Printers stamp low right side reads: Imprimeries Courmont Freres 10 Rue Breguet Paris Marque Deposee - Printing works Courmont Freres 10 Rue Breguet Paris Trademark

The Round stamp over a ticket in the upper left corner reads 25 Avril 1902 (April 25, 1902). We believe this date represents when the poster was hung for advertisement.

This show occurred before B&B was purchased by Ringling Brothers and prior to them using the term 'circus,' when they considered themselves a 'traveling museum.' The date and location of this show can be authenticated through the website circushistory.org/routes less