PUBLISHER: Published by S. W. Fores.
MEDIUM: Etching,
DATE: 1784
EDITION SIZE: Image size 12 x 8 3/8" (306 x 213 mm).
DESCRIPTION: Ballooning got its start in France in 1783 and quickly set off a flying craze throughout much of Europe. Vincent Lunardi, who was Italian born, traveled to Britain in 1784 to present his hydrogen balloon to the Prince of Wales and his people. It was a great success, but did not go entirely as planned. His friend, George Biggin, was supposed to accompany him on his ascent, but when the crowd grew impatient Lunardi was forced to leave him and ascend before his balloon was fully inflated. He traveled, instead, with a cat, dog and caged bird (seen in the basket of this etching) from the Artillery Ground in London to Standon Green End in Herfordshire. The flight's success brought great fame to Lunardi and eliminated what skepticism Britain had previously held for the craze. This etching shows the oars Lunardi brought on his accent, thinking they would help him steer his balloon as they did a boat.
ADDITIONAL INFO:
CONDITION: Good condition save a faint mat line.
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