Circus Wagon Figure c. 1938

"Circus Wagon Figure" is a 1938 watercolor by John Matulis. The artwork depicts a detailed rendering of a wooden statue of a woman, likely intended to adorn a circus wagon. The figure, labeled "Indian Maiden", is dressed in elaborate clothing and a headress, referencing a romanticized portrayal of Indigenous cultures popular during the period. This type of figure would have been a common sight at American circuses, reflecting the era's fascination with the exotic. Matulis's meticulous depiction emphasizes the texture and details of the carved wood, capturing the unique character of this once-vibrant piece of Americana.