This is a watercolour and gouache by a member of the Society of Aviation Artists, Percival Edward Norman (1912-64), of a flight of Spitfire Vbs crossing the channel embarking on what was known in 1941-43 as the Circus offensive by Fighter Command. These fighter sweeps were known as "Rhubarbs" "Rodeos" and "Ramrods" and were aimed at enticing the Luftwaffe in Northern France into battle or to seek targets of opportunity on the ground. This watercolour was painted in the 1950s as there is a label on the reverse indicating an Aviation Artist Tour in 1959. There is also another label with PE Norman's address on it, but an incorrect picture title. This must relate to another picture painted by the artist that has somehow ended up on the back of this picture. The picture is framed and behind glass, it appears to be in good original condition. Frame size 51 x 66cm (20" x 26") Picture Size 35.5 x 52cm (14" x 20.5") Internal Ref: AJD 30757
Flight of Spitfires crossing the Channel by Percival Edward Norman
Price
£800
| $1,089 USD | €890 EUR
Item Ref
AJD 30757
Description
This is a watercolour and gouache by a member of the Society of Aviation Artists, Percival Edward Norman (1912-64), of a flight of Spitfire Vbs crossing the channel embarking on what was known in 1941-43 as the Circus offensive by Fighter Command. These fighter sweeps were known as "Rhubarbs" "Rodeos" and "Ramrods" and were aimed at enticing the Luftwaffe in Northern France into battle or to seek targets of opportunity on the ground. This watercolour was painted in the 1950s as there is a label on the reverse indicating an Aviation Artist Tour in 1959. There is also another label with PE Norman's address on it, but an incorrect picture title. This must relate to another picture painted by the artist that has somehow ended up on the back of this picture. The picture is framed and behind glass, it appears to be in good original condition. Frame size 51 x 66cm (20" x 26") Picture Size 35.5 x 52cm (14" x 20.5") Internal Ref: AJD 30757