"Mysterious Plane" Sepia Lithograph

This aircraft print is an enigma, with limited details available. Presented as an elaborate sketch with a few notes and remarks, it takes us back to an era of discovery in American military and commercial aviation in the mid-20th century.

Is it a military or commercial aircraft? The front of the plane could be reminiscent of a Douglas DC-3, DC-6, or C-47 Skytrain. Perhaps it suggests a transatlantic flight, or an Avro Tudor VII? But after research, it appears to be neither a C-47, nor a DC-3, nor an Avro Tudor, which was a four-engine civil aircraft derived from the Lancaster bomber airframe. Instead, it could resemble a Beechcraft 18, initially a civilian cargo plane, later converted into a military transport and ambulance plane in 1940. This American twin-engine aircraft served from 1937 to 1969.

Notable are the drawings in the bottom right-hand corner, which feature sketches of bombs and their final positions on the aircraft. This print, with its sepia-toned treatment, evokes a vintage feel and invites travel, supposition, and perhaps even family memories recounted by our forebears. It is undoubtedly a piece of history.