PUTTALAM ELEPHANTS

by Robert Taylor

Editions Edition Size US($) QTY
Limited edition 400 $320.00
Fleet air arm folio proofs 350 $375.00
Artist proofs 25 $530.00
Please select quantity from the drop down and try again

The necessities of war often create unusual events – none more so than at a Corsair fighter station on a tropical island in the Indian Ocean

The hastily constructed airstrip of HMS Rajaliya was carved out of dense jungle at Puttalam and the metal Somerfield tracking enabled Corsairs to use the runway. During the monsoon season the Corsair’s tricky landing characteristics often sent them slithering off into the water-logged ground. It was then that the Navy called in its secret weapon to haul the Corsairs back to firmer ground – The Puttalam Elephants!

Operating happily in conditions where towing tractors became quickly bogged down, the Puttalam Elephants provided an invaluable service, and became much loved by the pilots and ground crews.

The Limited Edition

Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm fighter pilots who flew the F4U Corsair have added further significance by signing each print in the edition.

  • Lieutenant Eric Beechinor
  • Sub-Lieutenant Tony Maylett
  • Sub Lieutenant Gordon Dunnell RNVR

The Fleet Air Arm Folio

Each copy has been signed by a further Five of the Royal Navy's most distinguished fighter pilots.

  • Captain Eric 'Winkle' Brown CBE DSC FRAeS
  • Sub-Lieutenant Victor Kairis
  • Lieutenant Cyril Price
  • Lieutenant Commander Peter Twiss OBE DSC*
  • Lieutenant Commander Bruce Vibert
Media:
Lithograph
Size:
32 x 24 inches
Release Date:
6/2008

Framing Service available on this item

Interested in having this item framed? Our expert team are on hand to review your bespoke requirements. Simply tick the framing box at the checkout and we’ll contact you to discuss the best framing choices for your piece plus delivery options. For further information about our framing service click here.