Research
Of polychrome painted wood. Each with square top with inverted round corners supported by a figure of an acrobat performing a handstand, raised on a shaped triform base on paw feet. The top plateaus very old replacements. 

Provenance:
Collection of Mr. Wright Saltus Luddington, Santa Barbara, California

In this unusual pair of stands, each takes the form of a juggling acrobat in colorful costume. In somewhat contorted posture, they balance in a headstand while holding a ball in each of their hands and supporting the upper plateau with their feet. Also known historically as “joculators,” the profession encompassed all manner of performance including minstrelsy, dancing, juggling, tumbling, slight of hand, and mime. 

Full research report available on request.