Rare, un-numbered and signed collection of the Wright Aeronautical Corporation's 1928 Flights hand-colored lithograph set, depicting historic feats accomplished by pioneers of the air. The spectacular color lithos measure approximately 14.5 x 18, four of which are proof copies, featuring works by noted artist Frank Lemon, and each of the illustrations are signed in fountain pen by its famous aviator subject. Signers are: Orville Wright; Charles A. Lindbergh, Louis Bleriot, inscribed to Albert I. Lodwick; Richard E. Byrd, inscribed to H. S. Hartman (also signed by Harold Irving, Ashley McKinley and one other); Charles Kingsford-Smith, inscribed to Wright Aeronautical Corporation executive Albert I. Lodwick; A. C. Read; and John A. Macready and Oakley Kelly. Two of the prints are also signed by the artist, Frank Lemon. Each of the prints is individually framed, some are also double matted, to approximate sizes of 20.5 x 22 or slightly smaller, with four having been archivally framed. In fine condition, with expected mild toning. Accompanied by carbons of a lengthy two year collection of correspondence from Hartman to various people and organizations, attempting to assemble an autographed set of lithographs.
These images were originally produced as corporate Christmas gifts—in an edition of 500 sets. However, those serially numbered sets were not autographed by the pilots whose flights are portrayed inside, making this un-numbered unusual. Lodwick, the recipient of one of the prints, was an executive of Wright Aeronautical Corporation, which gave him access to high-profile aviators and enabled him to get their signatures. A highly desirable collection representing those men who in some way made history in their flying machines. RRAuction COA.
