The bold and wonderfully punchy fairground panel, being hand painted to an aluminium base, the ground in yellows and greens with ‘Everybody’ in sky blue and the typical fairground scrollwork motifs in red, gold and blue, being one panel from a set that read ‘This is the Fastest Ride Tonight – Everybody has Fun’, and standing at seven feet high, the whole surviving from a waltzer attraction at a British fairground.
Unknown.
The Waltzer, a popular fairground ride, originated in the UK in the 1920s. Dennis Jefferies of Congleton, Cheshire, designed the first model, initially called “The Whirligig”, which featured 10 cars. Later, the ride became known as the Waltzer, possibly influenced by the rock and roll era and dances like the “Twister”. Waltzers remain popular at travelling and many coastal funfairs, but are less common at large static amusement parks. The waltzer is an enduring icon of the British fairground scene. Waltzers were renowned for having the gangway around the edge of the ride packed with people. It truly was a social event, with many a couple meeting on the waltzers.
The artwork is similar to that of Fred Fowle. Fowles use of popular imagery as fuel for his futuristic designs, well anticipated the much-publicised pop art movement. The three-dimensional quality of the decoration is emphasised by careful shading of the forms, so that the shadows fall consistently as if from a constant light source. For all of the subtle variations of style and motifs, the decoration of British fairground rides has retained a remarkably consistent and coherent character for over half a century now, clearly distinguishing it from developments overseas.
In todays all-inclusive world, this truly is for everybody. A true statement piece.
It remains in entirely original condition with its marbled banding to the lower edge. The paintwork has wear entirely commensurate with its age. There are two brackets to the top for wall mounting.
By appointment only.
