Children of All Ages

Over the years, like any other youngster, I've daydreamed about skipping classes and running off to join the circus. And not just any circus. I'm talking one of those old-time circuses: the ones that artists, costumers, and historians dream about.
Alas, I remain firmly planted in the 21st Century, no sign of time-travel in sight.

Until then, I can always peruse old issues of National Geographic and daydream to my heart's content.

Most of these are from the October 1931 edition of the magazine, and the pictures were just lovely. I think the contrast of the monochromatism and the tradition color palette of a circus is what gets to me.
It leaves so much to imagine.

 Very Water for Elephants, eh? Requires lots of courage, I'm sure.

And beautiful. Look at her!

And the baby bears. So precious.

A real-life illustrated lady, too. Look at her hair bow. All of her art is so intriguing.

And as for this fellow? He wasn't part of the circus (rather an article on period London), but I sure think he'd be good at it. 

Maybe I could start my own. The Remarkable Circus O' the Red-Headed Girl? 

Pretty catchy to me.

Believe it or not,

Riley

All photos c/o National Geographic.