Early Aeronautical Image, "The First Carriage, The 'Ariel,"

Description:

Early Aeronautical Image,

"The First Carriage, The 'Ariel," 1843, Ackermann & Co., London, titled, credited, and described below image within plate, aquatint with hand-color on paper, 11 7/8 x 16 5/8 in. (neatlines),14 7/8 x 18 3/4 in. (sheet size),in a 19th century veneered frame with gilt liner, (minor toning overall with moderate to heavy toning at edges of sheet).

Note: Retains label from sale in 1905 at Arthur Ackermann & Son, London, which identifies it as "Rare old coloured print, Flying Machine."

In the visionary minds of its creators, the Ariel was to be the first successful flying machine, powered by steam and built for passenger travel. Patented in Great Britain in 1842 by William Samuel Henson (1812–1888) and John Stringfellow (1799–1883),it was planned for construction by the Aerial Transit Company, incorporated in 1843 and mentioned in the credit line on this print. In order to raise money for the project, the company advertised everywhere, spreading images of the machine, not yet fully constructed nor even tested, in hopes of generating widespread excitement. This print would have been part of those efforts and likely enjoyed broad circulation at the hands of its well-known publishers, successful London printsellers Ackermann & Co. Here, a full-scale machine is shown above an eager crowd, having successfully taken flight in a field outside London. In reality, no full-size model was ever built, and experiments were conducted with scale models in large interior spaces. Sadly, both fundraising and experimental flights faltered, and the project was abandoned within a few years. This print remains to illustrate the great hope and fascination surrounding the idea of mechanized flight throughout the 19th century.
Estimate $250-375


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords