Home > Historic > World War I and II > Airplanes and aviation
Knights of the Air - WWI aerial combat - Albert Ball
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Knights of the Air - WWI aerial combat - Albert Ball
A British fighter plane in the Royal Flying Corps is attacked by two German aircraft. The illustration accompanies a feature inside The Modern Boy magazine by Captain W. E. Johns (of Biggles fame) about Captain Albert Ball, the British WWI flying ace. Date: 1932
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14408836
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Aces Circus Combat Corps Heroism Richthofen Heroics
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Literature
> Magazines
> Historic
> World War I and II
> Airplanes and aviation
EDITORS COMMENTS
Amidst the chaotic skies of the Western Front during World War I, the relentless pursuit of aerial supremacy reached new heights as fighter planes became the latest weapons in the deadly dance of war. In this evocative illustration from The Modern Boy magazine, published in 1932, we witness a pivotal moment in the career of one of the most celebrated British flying aces: Captain Albert Ball. Ball, a decorated hero of the Royal Flying Corps, is depicted in the cockpit of his S.E.5a biplane as he engages in a fierce dogfight with two German Fokker Triplanes. The German pilots, led by the infamous Manfred von Richthofen, also known as the "Red Baron," were a formidable force in the skies above the battlefields of France. The intense aerial combat, a far cry from the static trench warfare on the ground, demanded a unique blend of courage, skill, and quick thinking. The illustration captures the raw emotion and intensity of these high-stakes encounters, with bullets flying and planes maneuvering in a deadly ballet. Captain W.E. Johns, a renowned aviation enthusiast and author, penned the accompanying feature on Captain Ball, recounting his heroics and exploits in the skies. Ball, who would ultimately be credited with 44 aerial victories, became a symbol of British heroism and determination during the war. As the world adjusted to the new realities of aerial warfare, the tales of brave pilots like Albert Ball captured the public's imagination, solidifying the legend of the Knights of the Air.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.