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An extraordinarily dramatic pair of large papier-mâché clown faces, likely French, dating to the late 19th century.

Two figures with a strong theatrical character, designed to be observed by an audience, still retain a surprisingly lively yet slightly disturbing expression.

Their surfaces reveal the passage of time: the paint shows abrasions, losses, and chromatic alterations that only accentuate the material strength and allure of these two faces. The particularly expressive eyes contribute to that strange ambivalence typical of ancient circus figures: created to entertain, yet still capable of inspiring a certain unease today.

Paper-mâché, a lightweight yet extremely versatile material, was widely used in the creation of stage sets, theatrical figures, and decorations for circuses, fairs, and amusement parks. The large size of the two elements and their construction suggest a scenic or decorative purpose, where they must have been visible even from a distance.

Another factor makes this pair particularly curious: the two faces appeared in a special episode of the Italian television show Cash or Trash, thus entering, over a century after their probable creation, a new phase in their long history.
They are therefore not simply two period decorations, but two authentic theatrical characters who have survived the test of time while retaining their character intact.

Their presence is deliberately theatrical and alienating: two large faces that seem to continue, even today, to observe whoever stands before them.

FEATURES
Period: Late 19th century

Origin: France, attributed to the French sphere

Material: Papier-mâché

Subject: Clown faces

Dimensions: Approximately 55 × 50 cm each (19.7" x 21.7")

Sold: Exclusively as a pair

Condition: Good condition commensurate with their age, with obvious abrasions, losses, and alterations to the original polychrome, consistent with the objects' long history and intended use.

A rare and visually striking pair, ideal for a collection of curiosities, a Wunderkammer, theatrical objects, or settings with an eccentric and highly evocative taste.Invia commenti

SHIPPING COST

Italy: €45

Europe: €100

United States: €280

Rest of the World: €380 (always ask for confirmation)