Description
The Blériot XI is a French aircraft of the pioneer era of aviation. The first example was used by Louis Blériot to make the first flight across the English Channel in a heavier-than-air aircraft, on 25 July 1909. This is one of the most famous accomplishments of the pioneer era of aviation, and not only won Blériot a lasting place in history but also assured the future of his aircraft manufacturing business. The event caused a major reappraisal of the importance of aviation; the English newspaper The Daily Express led its story of the flight with the headline “Britain is no longer an Island”. It was produced in both single- and two-seat versions, powered by several different engines, and was widely used for competition and training purposes. Military versions were bought by many countries, continuing in service until after the outbreak of World War I in 1914. Two restored examples – one in the United Kingdom and one in the United States — of original Blériot XI aircraft are thought to be the two oldest flyable aircraft in the world. During the early stages of World War I eight French, six British and six Italian squadrons operated various military versions of the aircraft, mainly for observation duties but also as trainers, and in the case of single-seaters as light bombers with a bomb load of up to 25 kg. In the early 1980s the National Air and Space Museum produced its “Aviation Relic Series”, which included limited edition prints, featuring 2″ square pieces of fabric from various historical aircraft in their collection. These were from aircraft that were going through restoration at the time to replace deteriorating original fabric. Most of the larger pieces were kept at the museum, however smaller sections were made available to the public. Made of lightweight fabric, this small cut-out is is AMAZING condition for its age! Removed from the Bleriot XI that is on display at the Smithsonian, it is mounted to a heavy card display. Display features a photo of the actual aircraft it was removed from, as well as a brief history. Comes completely matted and framed, but there is no glass. The square fabric section is approx. 2″ x 2″ in size, and the entire display is around 15″ x 20″. Would make a PERFECT addition to any collection or display! Please email me if you need additional photos or information.
——————- PAYMENT —————– Payment should be made within 7 business days at the end of the auction unless buyer contacts me for other arrangements. I accept all forms of payment. My goal is to ship within 7 days from auction end. However, depending on circumstances, it may take up to an additional 1 week from receipt of confirmed payment. If you need it shipped sooner, please let me know and I will do our best to accommodate. ——————- TERMS OF SALE —————– Most of my items are vintage, and as such are AS-IS, so you must therefore expect a degree of wear due to age and/or usage. I will describe each auction to the best of my knowledge and take as many photos necessary to ensure you are pleased upon receiving your item. All sales are final, so please make sure your questions are answered to your satisfaction before you purchase. ——————- ABOUT ME —————– Although my passion is the Me109, I do offer many other German Aircraft (Fw190, Me262, etc.), as well as USAF and Japanese items. Occasionally I do offer many non-vintage items such as prints and art relating to the time period. As a private collector myself, I am constantly on the lookout for historical memorabilia, authentic photographs, artwork or anything unique relating to military aircraft. ——————- COPYRIGHT —————– All pictures and descriptions used in my auctions under COPYRIGHT and I forbid the use of these photos and information in any manner such as paper or electronic (internet) publications or otherwise. Use is solely based on my authorization only. |