A Journey Through the
History of Circus & Clown Art
On around 400 m² you can explore the world of circus, clowns, acrobats, variety and magic – told through posters, programmes, costumes, props and photographs. What began as a private fascination has grown into one of the most important collections in Europe.
Clowns & The Art of Clowning
Costumes, makeup kits, props, and documents related to clowns—from Josef Fröhlich and Tom Belling to Grock and many international legends.
Circuses & Circus History
Posters, programs, models, and photos of Viennese and international circuses—from early traveling circuses to large permanent venues such as Renz and Busch.
Artists & Attractions
Juggling props, high-wire models, and other examples of artistic excellence—such as Enrico Rastelli’s juggling sticks or Eric Brenn’s spinning plates.
Magic & Illusion Arts
Props, programs, and memorabilia related to illusion arts in Vienna—from Ludwig Döbler and Kratky-Baschik to international stars of the magic scene.
Variety & Performance Icons
Material on the history of variety theater – Ronacher, Orpheum, and international performers, including icons like Josephine Baker and many others.
"Prater & Sideshow
Documents and objects relating to showmanship, freak shows, and curiosities in the Vienna Prater – such as a costume and chair belonging to Nikolai Kobelkoff, or 'Fat Mizzi' (die 'dicke Mizzi').
Artists & Attractions
Clowns & The Art of Clowning
Costumes, makeup kits, props, and documents related to clowns—from Josef Fröhlich and Tom Belling to Grock and many international legends.
Circuses & Circus History
Posters, programs, models, and photos of Viennese and international circuses—from early traveling circuses to large permanent venues such as Renz and Busch.
Artists & Attractions
Juggling props, high-wire models, and other examples of artistic excellence—such as Enrico Rastelli’s juggling sticks or Eric Brenn’s spinning plates.
Magic & Illusion Arts
Props, programs, and memorabilia related to illusion arts in Vienna—from Ludwig Döbler and Kratky-Baschik to international stars of the magic scene.
Variety & Performance Icons
Material on the history of variety theater – Ronacher, Orpheum, and international performers, including icons like Josephine Baker and many others.
"Prater & Sideshow
Documents and objects relating to showmanship, freak shows, and curiosities in the Vienna Prater – such as a costume and chair belonging to Nikolai Kobelkoff, or 'Fat Mizzi' (die 'dicke Mizzi').
From Hobby to Passion —
and it never stops.
What began about a hundred years ago with the private circus and clown collection of Heino Seitler is now a vibrant museum that is constantly growing. Our treasures are continually expanding through donations, targeted acquisitions, and surprising chance discoveries from Vienna and around the world.
"Formerly in the ring – today in our collection."
Accompany Us Through
our Rooms
In this video we guide you through our building. Experience the historic entrance area, the energy of the stage area, and take a look into the legendary freak room.
Selected Pieces from our Collection
Discover our collection in short video insights.
Jango Edwards - Costume
Watch video
Clownshoe - Size 80
Watch video
Varieté Ronacher
Watch video
Chimpanzees in the Circus
Watch video
Two Rösner tightrope-walking stars
Watch video
Oleg Popov
Watch video
Circus Renz
Watch video
