Martin Engelbrecht [Augsburg] (1684-1756)

Martin Engelbrecht [Augsburg] (1684-1756)
'ACROBATS' c.1750
A fine series depicting Acrobats performing in an open garden. A set of 6 copper engraved card-backed, cut away sheets combining to create an early peep show [105×142 mm] with original hand-colouring;

The cut aways depict; [1] the entrance way to a walled enclosure flanked with tall walls with two gentlemen looking into the scene; [2], a lady on the right and a couple on the left looking anxiously on as an acrobat doing a handstand on a rug prepares to receive some objects being thrown to him by an assistant; [3] a tightrope walkerbeing watched by three spectators whilst another performer lies prostrate after a fall; [4] a tightrope walker falling head over heals from a high wire whilst two gentlemen look on; [5] to the left a group of seated musicians accompany two acrobats, one catching atop while laying on a rope, the other excitedly waving his hand to attract a group of spectators on the right; [6] the back drop of a group of ladies and gentlemen chatting together and seated in an alcove of the walled enclosure.