Howard Koslow (1924 - 2016) "Aerialist" Signed lower left. Original Acrylic Painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the 29c Trapeze Artist stamp issued April 6, 1993. "Introducing the Most Difficult and Dangerous Feats Ever Devised by Human Ingenuity." So claimed a poster advertising one circus' thrilling high-wire acts. The forerunners of today's breathtaking aerial acts actually performed on horseback, but over the years the daring of circus acrobats increased along with the elevation of their performances. Jump-up boards were introduced into the acts, enabling the leapers to soar over animals and men alike. For many years, the triple somersault became their ultimate goal. So many performers had died while pursuing it that the Italians dubbed the triple somersault salto mortale or death leap. In 1874, John Worland made circus history by accomplishing this long sought-after feat, and later Alfredo Codona performed the triple from a flying trapeze. Until the mid 19th century, the trapeze was simply a stationary bar. Frenchman Jules Leotard devised a bar suspended by ropes known today as the "flying trapeze." The high-wire acts also underwent a series of changes. The public demanded more spectacular shows driven by daring stunts. On June 30, 1859, master of the high-wire Blondin successfully crossed over Niagara Falls on a wire 1,200 feet long. In recent years, the "Flying Wallendas" have dominated the acrobatic scene. One of their most amazing feats is the human pyramid, as many as nine members of the troupe adroitly balance on each others' shoulders on a precarious Wire strung high above the circus ring. Image Size: 14 x 12 in. Overall Size: 20.25 x 18 in. Unframed. (B14120)