Two Jugglers (or Figures in a Circle)
Drawing on paper • Alexander Calder (American, 1898–1976)
Style & Movement
Modernism / Surrealist-inflected Linearism
Medium & Technique
Ink on paper (pen and ink); continuous line technique
Creation Period
1931
Dimensions & Format
Landscape format; approximately 18 x 24 inches (estimated)
Subject Description
The composition features two dynamic figures engaged in an athletic or circus-like activity within a large oval ring. The figure on the left is captured in a mid-stride, balancing a ball on his head while tossing another, rendered in Calder’s signature wire-like continuous line. The figures reflect Calder’s deep fascination with the circus and kinetic movement.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; visible toning and slight mat burn along the edges conform to the age of the paper.
Estimated Market Value
$50,000 - $80,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$40,000 - $60,000 USD
Provenance History
Signed and dated 'Calder 1931' in the lower right corner; likely from a private collection with ties to early 20th-century New York or Parisian modernism circles.
Art Historical Significance
Highly significant; 1931 was a pivotal year for Calder as he transitioned into abstraction and created his first 'mobiles.' This drawing demonstrates the 'drawing in space' philosophy that defined his wire sculptures, translating three-dimensional kinetic energy into a two-dimensional plane.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'wire-line' quality where the ink line mimics the artist's literal wire sculptures of the same period; clear signature and early date (1931) which marks the height of his 'Cirque Calder' influence.
Condition Issues
Uniform yellowing/toning of the paper consistently with age; minor edge darkening indicative of acidic matting in the past; potential light foxing not clearly visible under the glass reflection.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the work is mounted using acid-free, archival materials; protect from direct UV light exposure; utilize Museum Glass or Optium Acrylic to reduce the reflections visible in the current housing.