Unique Circus Images.

 Here are some rare images that have been taken of unique acts through the 1800's.

Lady and the Serpent  

Russian Contortionist 

Lion Tamer 

Hippopotamus Trainer

Lion Trainer 

Clown with Hippopotamus Trainer

Knife Thrower with Assistant 

Knife Juggler 

Unicycle Rider. 

These images are treasured in the circus world as they reflect the life and atmosphere of what once was the age of a life time. Before WHS (Workplace Health & Safety) was brought into the picture, acts would perform amazing death defying tricks that would aww an audience to silence, this makes it harder for performers these days to impress the audiance to the standards that where set by the 1800's acts. 

Themed Circus'

Over the years the perspective on circus' have changed. Through the 1800's circus' traditionally consisted of an animal trainer, trapeze artists, fire breathers, type-rope walkers and a ringleader. Usually located in a large striped tent.

The cliché has changed over time due to the urbanisation of circus traditions. No longer do they have fake looking weight lifters or bearded women but talented contortionists and trapeze artists that will amaze the audiences with their amazing skills. New circus themes that are trending include Steampunk, Gothic, Urban and Traditional.