Carousel Reindeer c. 1939

Michael Riccitelli created this watercolor painting of a Carousel Reindeer sometime between 1855 and 1995. The painting depicts a leaping reindeer, complete with saddle and decorative straps, as though it's mid-motion on a carousel. The creation and popularity of carousels in the United States mirrors broader social and economic shifts. Emerging in the late 19th century, carousels became a staple of amusement parks and public spaces, reflecting increased industrial production and a growing middle class with disposable income for leisure. The craftsmanship of carousel animals, often made by European immigrants, highlights a blend of artistic traditions adapting to American culture. Carousel art offered a momentary escape from the rigors of industrial life. Understanding this painting means considering its place within leisure history and the institutional context of American amusement culture. By consulting archives, historical societies, and collections of popular ephemera, we can better grasp its significance as a cultural artifact.