Vintage Clowns

Today's theme is vintage clowns. I've come across quite a few, very interesting old photos, some cute (like this one of Helen Kane) and some downright frightening. I've had a particular adoration for vintage circus and carnival themes since I read I Spy Fun House some 12 years ago. The ambiance of the photos captivated me, and it's the same sort of vibe I get from old circus photos. I get absolutely giddy about anything with this theme, like the HBO series Carnivale, and the movie Water for Elephants, which opens in theaters this weekend. So I guess the timing for this post is perfect!

Hit "read more" to see them all, and click each image to see its full size. I'll keep hunting for more like these, and of course share my discoveries.

This picture gives me the freaks! It's no wonder so many people have a phobia of clowns.

 I love the strange, whimsical faces on this costume. Reminds me of the papier-mâché pumpkin candy buckets of Victorian times. Originals are now worth thousands of dollars. Being so rare and nostalgic now, it's cool to see a photo from when those funny faces were the current trend.