This vivid, theatrical composition—likely inspired by the Bertram Mills Circus—brings together acrobats, riders, clowns, and animals in a tightly choreographed spectacle. Encouraged by Dame Laura Knight, Spurrier turned his eye to circus life with characteristic flair. The bold, graphic style reflects Spurrier’s background in illustration and his association with the Artists’ International Association where he aligned with progressive artistic circles. Spurrier exhibited with the AIA in the mid 1930’s (including a painting of a circus, possibly this composition).