The Clown Egg Register: A Treasure Trove of Circus Collectibles and Historical Insights

In the realm of circus memorabilia and historical research, The Clown Egg Register stands as an invaluable resource. This comprehensive archive, housed at the Circus World Museum in Baraboo, Wisconsin, boasts an extensive collection of circus ephemera, artifacts, and documents spanning over two centuries.

The Clown Egg Register

by Riccardo Scandellari

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	32748 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	160 pages
Paperback	:	29 pages
Item Weight	:	2.08 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.08 x 9 inches

FREE

The Origins of the Register

The register was founded by Riccardo Scandellari, a passionate circus enthusiast and collector. Born in Italy in 1928, Scandellari developed a fascination with the circus at an early age. He collected clown eggs, which are small painted wooden eggs traditionally given to children by clowns, and amassed a vast personal collection of circus-related items.

In the 1970s, Scandellari approached the Circus World Museum about donating his collection and establishing an archive dedicated to preserving circus history. The museum, recognizing the significance of the collection, enthusiastically agreed. Thus, The Clown Egg Register was born, named in honor of the central artifact that inspired its creation.

The Collection: A Window into Circus Culture

The Clown Egg Register houses a diverse array of objects that provide a multifaceted perspective on circus culture. The collection includes:

• Clown eggs: Over 10,000 hand-painted wooden eggs, each a unique artistic expression and a testament to the creative spirit of clowns.
• Costumes and props: Elaborate and meticulously crafted costumes worn by performers, as well as props used in circus acts.
• Posters and programs: Vibrant and eye-catching posters advertising circus performances, and programs offering insights into the shows and performers.
• Photographs and films: Captivating images and footage capturing the behind-the-scenes operations and the grandeur of circus performances.
• Historical documents: Contracts, ledgers, and other records that shed light on the business and legal aspects of circus operations.

Research and Preservation: A Vital Resource

Beyond its historical significance, The Clown Egg Register also serves as a vital resource for researchers and scholars. The collection provides a wealth of information on circus history, performance practices, and the lives of circus performers. Researchers have used the register to explore topics such as:

• The evolution of clown makeup and costumes
• The role of women in the circus industry
• The business strategies of successful circus owners
• The cultural impact of the circus on American society

The museum staff is dedicated to preserving the collection for future generations. Items are carefully stored in climate-controlled conditions, and conservators work to restore and maintain the artifacts.

The Clown Egg Register is a treasure trove of circus history and memorabilia. It offers a unique window into the vibrant and enchanting world of the circus, preserving the legacy of one of America's most beloved forms of entertainment. As a research resource and a cultural heritage, the register continues to inspire and inform both scholars and enthusiasts alike.

The Clown Egg Register

by Riccardo Scandellari

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	32748 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	160 pages
Paperback	:	29 pages
Item Weight	:	2.08 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.08 x 9 inches

FREE