This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 5/11/2001.
Phineas T. Barnum and James A. Bailey didn't just call their circus "the greatest show on earth," they proved it was. The two Americans, who formed their partnership in the 1880s, found that interest in the 3-ring circus was so high that they took it around the world. This magnificent framed stone lithograph poster is from 1890, a year before Barnum's death and the subsequent takeover of the Barnum & Bailey Circus by rival Ringling Brothers in 1907. The Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus continues to this day, but this poster provides a sentimental journey back to a time when the sights, sounds and smells of the elephants, horses, lions and clowns came to France and "le plus grand cirque du monde" captivated that nation. The 27" x 39" poster features the illustrated images of Barnum and Bailey and a maze of colorful, intricate artwork including a roaring lion, and references to the "magnifique" attractions of the "trois cirques" (3 rings). Given its age, the poster has been preserved with remarkable care, showing only a few creases and general wear around the edges. The vast majority of the poster is in near-mint condition and the vibrant color of the artwork is completely intact.