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Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd
Tel07494 763382Please quote Antiques Atlas.
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Non UK callers :
+44 7494 763382
Circus Act Cyclist — Lyrical Surrealism Painting
Circus Cyclist (1966) — A Poetic Surrealist Tableau by James Eagle with Documented Provenance
Subject and Medium
Circus Cyclist (1966) by James Eagle is a poetic example of post-war British surrealism, merging theatrical symbolism with quiet modernist reflection. Painted in oil on canvas, the work captures a moment suspended between performance and stillness.
A composed circus performer balances delicately on a unicycle beside a resting dog, framed by a gently draped red curtain. Within this dreamlike, staged setting, Eagle reflects on the emotional tension between spectacle and silence—a central motif in Lyrical Surrealism, notably influenced by Paul Delvaux. The figures exist in a world at once performative and introspective, inviting the viewer into a contemplative, symbolic theatre of the mind.
Composition and Technique
Created in the mid-1960s, Circus Cyclist coincides with a mature phase of surrealism that favoured symbolic clarity and emotional nuance over early automatist experimentation. Eagle’s restrained palette—delicate ochres, muted reds, and softened greens—demonstrates refined tonal control.
The simplified forms and rhythmic spatial balance reveal a disciplined modernist sensibility, while the quiet allegory aligns the work with Magical Realism, presenting a fantastical scene rendered with serene conviction. The delicate equilibrium between figure, animal, and architectural framing evokes themes of poise, solitude, and artistic discipline. Fine, translucent paint layers contribute to a soft luminosity, creating a timeless, meditative atmosphere.
About the Artist
James Eagle was a British painter active in the mid-20th century, associated with neo-surrealist and lyrical surrealist movements. His work often elevates ordinary subjects into psychological symbols, reflecting a balance between imagination, order, and emotional stillness.
Influenced by figures such as Paul Delvaux, Edward Burra, and Leonora Carrington, Eagle merged dream-state imagery with modernist compositional clarity. His refined geometry, poise, and introspective tone position him within a noteworthy lineage of post-war British surrealism, a movement defined by poetic restraint and quiet symbolism.
Signature
Signed lower right: Eagle.
Verso graphite inscription:
“Circus Cyclist / James Eagle / 1966 / James Eagle”
Confirming title, artist, and year of execution.
Frame
Presented in a finely crafted oak-grain frame that complements the painting’s warm tonal harmony and mid-century aesthetic. The frame extends the theatrical setting while maintaining the painting’s tranquil mood.
Provenance
• Eastern Shire Art Dealer, United Kingdom
• Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd
• Exhibited: Lord Hill Museum, Shropshire, UK
This provenance confirms authenticity and institutional exhibition history within a British museum context.
Significance
Circus Cyclist embodies the poetic essence of Lyrical Surrealism, where stillness and fantasy serve as metaphors for inner reflection. Eagle’s combination of compositional precision and emotional restraint makes the work a compelling meditation on post-war introspection—the moment of silence after spectacle, the fragile balance between control and reverie.
Why Collectors Value This Work
• Rare and emotionally resonant example of British mid-century surrealism
• Evocative of the contemplative stillness found in Delvaux and Carrington
• Harmoniously composed with museum-standard execution
• Intimate yet symbolically rich—ideal for refined interiors
• Supported by documented provenance and exhibition history
Shipping
Worldwide shipping available. Professionally packed and fully insured to ensure secure international delivery.
Available exclusively through Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD — enquiries welcome to secure this exceptional piece. We offer our clients 100% satisfaction guarantee with all of our fine art, antiques & collectibles!
We ship worldwide with expert bespoke professional wrapping & packing and offer attractive international shipping rates with insurance – please send us your post / zip code and country for a quote.
We Offer Free delivery to most areas of the U.K mainland except for Scottish Highland & Islands – Please send us your post code for a quote thankyou.
Registered Office Address
Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, United Kingdom, WC2H 9JQ
Company Number 15666518
GB VAT registration number 466128775
Making Payment
Goods can be bought by either International bank wire transfer or domestic BACS payment we can email you an invoice together with our banking instructions. Cash upon collection is also accepted. Shipping is with insurance cover. Import duty and taxes payable by the buyer please enquire if you need any assistance. Delivery time is usually within 2 weeks for International and 1 week for domestic shipping approximate. It can be faster depending upon the size and weight of the item(s) that you ordering from us. You are also welcome to arrange for your own courier to collect as long as we have received full cleared bank transfer payment.
SellerCheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd
View all stock from
Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd
Private dealer, by appointment only.
71-75 Shelton Street,
Covent Garden,
London, England
WC2H 9JQ.
Tel : 07494 763382
Non UK callers : +44 7494 763382
Get directions to Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd
Subject and Medium
Circus Cyclist (1966) by James Eagle is a poetic example of post-war British surrealism, merging theatrical symbolism with quiet modernist reflection. Painted in oil on canvas, the work captures a moment suspended between performance and stillness.
A composed circus performer balances delicately on a unicycle beside a resting dog, framed by a gently draped red curtain. Within this dreamlike, staged setting, Eagle reflects on the emotional tension between spectacle and silence—a central motif in Lyrical Surrealism, notably influenced by Paul Delvaux. The figures exist in a world at once performative and introspective, inviting the viewer into a contemplative, symbolic theatre of the mind.
Composition and Technique
Created in the mid-1960s, Circus Cyclist coincides with a mature phase of surrealism that favoured symbolic clarity and emotional nuance over early automatist experimentation. Eagle’s restrained palette—delicate ochres, muted reds, and softened greens—demonstrates refined tonal control.
The simplified forms and rhythmic spatial balance reveal a disciplined modernist sensibility, while the quiet allegory aligns the work with Magical Realism, presenting a fantastical scene rendered with serene conviction. The delicate equilibrium between figure, animal, and architectural framing evokes themes of poise, solitude, and artistic discipline. Fine, translucent paint layers contribute to a soft luminosity, creating a timeless, meditative atmosphere.
About the Artist
James Eagle was a British painter active in the mid-20th century, associated with neo-surrealist and lyrical surrealist movements. His work often elevates ordinary subjects into psychological symbols, reflecting a balance between imagination, order, and emotional stillness.
Influenced by figures such as Paul Delvaux, Edward Burra, and Leonora Carrington, Eagle merged dream-state imagery with modernist compositional clarity. His refined geometry, poise, and introspective tone position him within a noteworthy lineage of post-war British surrealism, a movement defined by poetic restraint and quiet symbolism.
Signature
Signed lower right: Eagle.
Verso graphite inscription:
“Circus Cyclist / James Eagle / 1966 / James Eagle”
Confirming title, artist, and year of execution.
Frame
Presented in a finely crafted oak-grain frame that complements the painting’s warm tonal harmony and mid-century aesthetic. The frame extends the theatrical setting while maintaining the painting’s tranquil mood.
Provenance
• Eastern Shire Art Dealer, United Kingdom
• Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd
• Exhibited: Lord Hill Museum, Shropshire, UK
This provenance confirms authenticity and institutional exhibition history within a British museum context.
Significance
Circus Cyclist embodies the poetic essence of Lyrical Surrealism, where stillness and fantasy serve as metaphors for inner reflection. Eagle’s combination of compositional precision and emotional restraint makes the work a compelling meditation on post-war introspection—the moment of silence after spectacle, the fragile balance between control and reverie.
Why Collectors Value This Work
• Rare and emotionally resonant example of British mid-century surrealism
• Evocative of the contemplative stillness found in Delvaux and Carrington
• Harmoniously composed with museum-standard execution
• Intimate yet symbolically rich—ideal for refined interiors
• Supported by documented provenance and exhibition history
Shipping
Worldwide shipping available. Professionally packed and fully insured to ensure secure international delivery.
Available exclusively through Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD — enquiries welcome to secure this exceptional piece. We offer our clients 100% satisfaction guarantee with all of our fine art, antiques & collectibles!
We ship worldwide with expert bespoke professional wrapping & packing and offer attractive international shipping rates with insurance – please send us your post / zip code and country for a quote.
We Offer Free delivery to most areas of the U.K mainland except for Scottish Highland & Islands – Please send us your post code for a quote thankyou.
Registered Office Address
Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, United Kingdom, WC2H 9JQ
Company Number 15666518
GB VAT registration number 466128775
Making Payment
Goods can be bought by either International bank wire transfer or domestic BACS payment we can email you an invoice together with our banking instructions. Cash upon collection is also accepted. Shipping is with insurance cover. Import duty and taxes payable by the buyer please enquire if you need any assistance. Delivery time is usually within 2 weeks for International and 1 week for domestic shipping approximate. It can be faster depending upon the size and weight of the item(s) that you ordering from us. You are also welcome to arrange for your own courier to collect as long as we have received full cleared bank transfer payment.
Price
Click here to message the seller The price has been listed in British Pounds.
Conversion rates as of 4/DEC/2025. Euro & Dollar prices will vary and should only be used as a guide.
Always confirm final price with dealer.
DimensionsDimensions (Framed)
48 cm (Height) × 38 cm (Width) × 4 cm (Depth)
Category Antique Pictures / Engravings / Art
> Antique Oil Paintings
Date 1966
1960s Antiques Material Oil Painting on Canvas
Origin British
Condition Condition Report
• Canvas Original, secure, and well-stretched
• Paint Surface Excellent, with fine, even craquelure consistent with age no visible retouching under magnification
• Varnish Clear, stable, and evenly applied
• Frame Structurally sound with light age-related wear
• Reverse Graphite inscription partially visible minor adhesive residue from earlier label
Item code as1013a1269
Status For Sale
£8000.00 
$10698.40
€9164.80
$10698.40
€9164.80
Looking to Buy?
Arrange a final price and delivery details directly with the dealerClick here to message the seller
Conversion rates as of 4/DEC/2025. Euro & Dollar prices will vary and should only be used as a guide.
Always confirm final price with dealer.
Shipping information
We offer Free Delivery to Mainland England, Wales mainland & Scottish lowlands mainland areas only!
For International buyers please contact us before you order as shipping costs are additional please request a shipping quote, also to advise that any import duty taxes due are additional and are payable by the buyer.
Scottish Highlands & all islands also for International buyers please get in touch for an international shipping quote thankyou. Our preferred Payment is by by BACS Bank Transfer, we can also accept stripe, amazon pay, google pay & paypal.
Confirmation of delivery is provided by email or text message, which includes a courier tracking number and date of posting or collection. Shipping costs are charged based upon the type of shipping service used, either express, standard or economy services and size and weight of item.
Delivery by parcel courier within the UK Mainland will be used for all smalls, paintings & all furniture items allow between 2 to 5 working days delivery time. Online tracking can be provided. International delivery airfreight is available estimated delivery times between 5 to 14 working days approximate upon request by providing your full name and address together with a postal area or zip code and a contact phone number.
Customs Payment & Brexit
Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD operates on a Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU) basis which means that the International buyer is responsible for any import duties, taxes & customs clearance and any other charges which may be necessary to release an order from international customs.
Following the UK leaving the EU on 1st January 2021 (BREXIT) there have been some changes to customs & duty charges for EU customers. Tax and import duty varies from country to country so we recommend you check with your local tax office to see if any fees will be payable.
If the customer refuses to pay any duty and customs charges and the parcel is returned to sender all shipping charges will be deducted from any refund.
For International buyers please contact us before you order as shipping costs are additional please request a shipping quote, also to advise that any import duty taxes due are additional and are payable by the buyer.
Scottish Highlands & all islands also for International buyers please get in touch for an international shipping quote thankyou. Our preferred Payment is by by BACS Bank Transfer, we can also accept stripe, amazon pay, google pay & paypal.
Confirmation of delivery is provided by email or text message, which includes a courier tracking number and date of posting or collection. Shipping costs are charged based upon the type of shipping service used, either express, standard or economy services and size and weight of item.
Delivery by parcel courier within the UK Mainland will be used for all smalls, paintings & all furniture items allow between 2 to 5 working days delivery time. Online tracking can be provided. International delivery airfreight is available estimated delivery times between 5 to 14 working days approximate upon request by providing your full name and address together with a postal area or zip code and a contact phone number.
Customs Payment & Brexit
Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD operates on a Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU) basis which means that the International buyer is responsible for any import duties, taxes & customs clearance and any other charges which may be necessary to release an order from international customs.
Following the UK leaving the EU on 1st January 2021 (BREXIT) there have been some changes to customs & duty charges for EU customers. Tax and import duty varies from country to country so we recommend you check with your local tax office to see if any fees will be payable.
If the customer refuses to pay any duty and customs charges and the parcel is returned to sender all shipping charges will be deducted from any refund.
Terms and conditions
For International buyers please contact us before you order as shipping costs are additional please request a shipping quote, also to advise that any import duty taxes due are additional and are payable by the buyer.
For both domestic & International buyers please get in touch for a shipping quote thankyou. Our payment method is by BACS Bank Transfer for UK domestic clients and for International clients payment is preferred by international bank wire transfer. We no longer accept any Online Card or in person card payments due to payment providers charging us and not returning the processing transaction fee even if an order is fraudulent, cancelled or returned. All Item(s) will need to be settled by bank transfer only. We will email you a proforma invoice with our bank details.
For International buyers Payment is required within 3 calendar days of the sale being agreed.
If payment is not received within this time. Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD reserves the right to consider selling the item (s) to another customer at its discretion.
Deposit payments are accepted, however shipping will not take place until the balance has been paid in full and to advise deposit payments are non refundable.
Upgrades & Exchanges are also offered please ask.
Returns are accepted within 14 days of receipt. The buyer is solely responsible for paying the entire costs of the outbound & return shipping costs also any import costs & duty taxes due. Return authorisation should be requested by sending an email before posting. Once we receive the item in good order as supplied not withstanding notified transit damage, we will return partial refund payment using the same payment method less our shipping costs. For any Refunds given the refund amount will have our cost of the outbound shipping costs deducted.
Customs Payment & Brexit
Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD operates on a Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU) basis which means that the International buyer is responsible for any import duties, taxes & customs which may be necessary to release an order from international customs.
Following the UK leaving the EU on 1st January 2021 (BREXIT) there have been some changes to customs & duty charges for EU customers. Tax and import duty varies from country to country so we recommend you check with your local tax office to see if any fees will be payable.
If the customer refuses to pay any duty and customs charges and the parcel is returned to sender all shipping charges will be deducted from any refund.
For both domestic & International buyers please get in touch for a shipping quote thankyou. Our payment method is by BACS Bank Transfer for UK domestic clients and for International clients payment is preferred by international bank wire transfer. We no longer accept any Online Card or in person card payments due to payment providers charging us and not returning the processing transaction fee even if an order is fraudulent, cancelled or returned. All Item(s) will need to be settled by bank transfer only. We will email you a proforma invoice with our bank details.
For International buyers Payment is required within 3 calendar days of the sale being agreed.
If payment is not received within this time. Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD reserves the right to consider selling the item (s) to another customer at its discretion.
Deposit payments are accepted, however shipping will not take place until the balance has been paid in full and to advise deposit payments are non refundable.
Upgrades & Exchanges are also offered please ask.
Returns are accepted within 14 days of receipt. The buyer is solely responsible for paying the entire costs of the outbound & return shipping costs also any import costs & duty taxes due. Return authorisation should be requested by sending an email before posting. Once we receive the item in good order as supplied not withstanding notified transit damage, we will return partial refund payment using the same payment method less our shipping costs. For any Refunds given the refund amount will have our cost of the outbound shipping costs deducted.
Customs Payment & Brexit
Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD operates on a Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU) basis which means that the International buyer is responsible for any import duties, taxes & customs which may be necessary to release an order from international customs.
Following the UK leaving the EU on 1st January 2021 (BREXIT) there have been some changes to customs & duty charges for EU customers. Tax and import duty varies from country to country so we recommend you check with your local tax office to see if any fees will be payable.
If the customer refuses to pay any duty and customs charges and the parcel is returned to sender all shipping charges will be deducted from any refund.
View all stock from
Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd
Private dealer, by appointment only.71-75 Shelton Street,
Covent Garden,
London, England
WC2H 9JQ.
Tel : 07494 763382
Non UK callers : +44 7494 763382
Get directions to Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd
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