The Blond Knight by Robert Taylor

This is the second edition in this portfolio, dedicated to Erich Hartmann.

During an astonishing three-year period on the Eastern Front Erich Hartmann downed 352 enemy aircraft to become the highest-scoring Ace in history. It is a record likely to stand for all time. To complete this outstanding Three Hundred Club Portfolio, Robert Taylor pays tribute to the Ace of Aces.

Following up on the first release in this pair HUNTERS AT DAWN, Robert Taylor’s atmospheric painting portrays Hartmann climbing out of his Bf109 G-6 at Weszperem’s snow-covered airfield after returning from another arduous mission leading Stab I./JG53 with whom, on 4 February he downed a Yak-9. It was his 337th victory which he achieved during a brief two-week spell in command of the unit and away from his beloved JG52.

Adding great significance to this superb release, the edition is signed by iconic Luftwaffe Aces who flew on the Russian Front, and part of the edition includes the original signature of Erich Hartmann – the Ace of Aces! – giving collectors the opportunity to invest in a genuine piece of aviation history.

Signatures:

Limited Edition, Artist's Proofs and Remarque Editions (2 Signatures):
Joining Robert Taylor in signing every print are two renowned Luftwaffe Fighter Aces who flew on the Eastern Front during World War II.

Unteroffizier HUBERT-LUDWIG PFLAUM - Iron Cross

Hauptmann KARL-FRITZ SCHLOSSSTEIN - German Cross in Gold / 8 victories

Hartmann Tribute Editions (9 Signatures):
Representing the ultimate in collecting, this exceptional edition is issued with an ORIGINAL PENCIL work specially created by Robert Taylor. Each drawing has been signed by four Luftwaffe fighter Aces and conservation matted to include the original signatures of three more, including Erich Hartmann. The Aces included in this historic edition amassed a staggering total of 1000 victories between them!

Generalleutnant GÜNTHER RALL - Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves & Swords / 275 victories

Feldwebel OSKAR BÖSCH - Iron Cross 1st Class / 18 victories

Oberstleutnant HEINZ MARQUARDT - Knight’s Cross / 121 victories

Leutnant HUGO BROCH - Knight’s Cross / 81 victories

THE MATTED SIGNATURES

Generalmajor JOSEF HAIBÖCK - Knight’s Cross / 77 victories

Major FRITZ LOSIGKEIT - Knight’s Cross / 68 victories

Oberst ERICH HARTMANN - Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords & Diamonds / 352 victories