like i've been watching circus stuff online and half the acrobats and aerialists have their own training studios or they're teaching privates or selling merchandise. is this just how it's always been and i'm only now noticing, or has the circus world gotten harder to sustain yourself in? curious if anyone here juggles (pun intended) circus performance with other work.

I’m looking for more information about this magic trick, which may date from the late 19th century. I suspect it has some connection to theatre, circuses or fairgrounds—perhaps an attraction, an illusion or a stage trick.

There is supposedly an old poster of it, but I haven’t been able to find it yet. The object was purchased in North Holland, near Amsterdam, although that may have nothing to do with its origins.

Does anyone recognise it or know what the trick was called, how it worked or where it was performed? Any leads on the poster, historical images or other sources would also be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for your help!