The Greatest Show on Earth

The Great Forepaugh & Sells Brothers Shows Combined. Phenomenal Acts of Contortion . . .
Color lithograph poster
Prints & Photographs Division
Copyright deposit (140.16b)
Digital ID# ppmsca-10078

The circus flourished in the United States from its earliest manifestations--traveling animal acts, jugglers, tightrope dancers, and clowns--to become one of the most spectacular and popular forms of entertainment. Phineas T. Barnum, the great circus entrepreneur, well understood the advertising value of posters brimming with exciting images promising astounding feats and exotica of all types. Other circuses were quick to follow Barnum's lead. In addition to Barnum and Bailey posters, the Library's collection includes colorful advertisements from Buffalo Bill's Wild West Shows, Ringling Brothers, and this poster for Forepaugh and Sells Shows, promoting Madame Yucca, "the Female Hercules."