Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus 112th Edition Souvenir Program & Magazine
Ephemera, Souvenir Program, Mass-produced Print • In-house graphic design for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Shows, Inc.
Style & Movement
Mid-20th Century Commercial Illustration / Pop Americana
Medium & Technique
Offset lithography on glossy paper with saddle-stitch binding
Creation Period
1982
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 10 inches; Vertical Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A dynamic collage featuring iconic circus elements: Gunther Gebel-Williams in a green sequined jumpsuit atop a futuristic tank-like vehicle, acrobats forming a human pyramid, showgirls, clowns, horses, and various performers. The design uses high-saturation colors and bold typography to evoke excitement.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; Item is currently in a plastic protective sleeve but shows visible creasing and shelf wear
Estimated Market Value
$15 - $35 USD
Auction Estimate
$10 - $25 USD
Provenance History
Originally sold at circus venues in 1982; currently bearing a yellow consignor tag (12155), indicating it is in a retail or auction secondary market setting
Art Historical Significance
Represents the 112th season of the famous American circus, showcasing the late-20th-century transition of circus marketing toward high-octane, spectacle-based imagery and featuring legendary headliners like Gunther Gebel-Williams.
Notable Features
Includes the original price mark ($2.50) on the bottom edge; features the 'Greatest Show on Earth' globe logo; contains consignor inventory labels suggesting a modern resale context.
Condition Issues
Visible surface creasing throughout, particularly on the top right and left edges; minor corner blunting; potential humidity-related warping beneath the plastic wrap; tape/tag residue on protective sleeve.
Conservation Recommendations
Remove from low-quality plastic sleeve; store in an archival-grade acid-free sleeve with a rigid backing board to prevent further creasing and acidity migration.