Step right up and enjoy the tiniest show on earth. Pat Redding Scanlon’s Flea Circus brings to life one of the most curious attractions ever seen under the circus tent.

Flea circuses appeared in sideshows and carnivals beginning in the late nineteenth century. The tradition began even earlier, when watchmakers and metalworkers created miniature chains and harnesses to show off their skills. These acts featured tiny illusions of card playing bugs, insect orchestras, swordfights, chariot races and more.

The painting is bright, humorous and full of tiny details that make the imagination go wild. It has the spirit of an old carnival poster and celebrates the joyful oddities that made sideshows so memorable.

A playful tribute to the small wonders that once delighted crowds.