Behind The Scenes | Ludwig Knaus | 1880

Ludwig Knaus’ Behind the Scenes (c. 1880) is a striking and deeply atmospheric depiction of life behind the curtain of a traveling circus. In stark contrast to the wonder and spectacle seen by the audience, Knaus exposes the harsh realities of the performers' private world—a scene of exhaustion, poverty, and quiet despair. A weary clown sits by a makeshift stove, cradling a doll, while two children play on the floor, their tattered costumes hinting at a lost innocence. A woman, draped in a disheveled robe, converses with a sinister-looking man, evoking a sense of unease. Scattered objects, dirty dishes, and worn-out props amplify the sense of struggle. The artist’s meticulous attention to detail and masterful use of light and shadow create a haunting contrast between illusion and reality, making this painting a poignant commentary on the unseen lives of entertainers.

Frame:

Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age.

All framed prints feature our premium fine art paper. This is a museum-quality paper which reproduces photography and artworks with exceptional tonality and renders sharp details with consistent flatness and accuracy.

Print: 

For the matted / mounted prints we use a thick 1.4mm window mount cut from premium, textured mountboard. All mounts are "conservation grade", FSC certified, 100% acid free, and will not discolour or fade with age.

• Simple, elegant design
• Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface
• Handmade by specialist picture framers
• FSC certified off-white mat / window mount
• Delivered ready for hanging