The tightrope walker is undoubtedly one of the most iconic pieces in the Physics Cabinet collection of the UC Science Museum. Elegantly dressed in the fashion of the 18th century, he balances on a finely crafted stand, supported only by a spike beneath one of his shoes. He holds a rod bent in an inverted U shape, at the ends of which are two heavy metal spheres. These serve to lower the centre of gravity of the figure, below the point of support at the tip of the foot.
This is a classic example of a device commonly found in Physics Cabinets or even as a decorative object from the late 17th century onwards. Today, the artistic and historical value of the piece far exceeds its original function — it was once used in experimental physics lessons to demonstrate the scientific principles known at the time. Instruments of this kind, albeit in much simpler forms, remain familiar today and often appear as educational toys.