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SBD Dauntless by Larry McManus

Signed by the artist

Initial Overall Size: 44" x 38"

Custom image sizes available. If borders are desired, the image will be reduced proportionally (e.g., for 2" borders on all sides, the image dimensions would be reduced by 4" to 40" x 34").

Indicate desired image size in comments during checkout. If no custom size is provided, your image size will be 44" x 38".)

Printed on special Fuji Crystal Archive and Kodak photographic papers with a fine luster finish

This particular aircraft, SBD-4 number 10694, is equipped with air-to-surface (ASV) radar, key during reconnaissance missions, and has the hallmark wing trailing edge “dive brakes” to control aircraft speed during dives. It also has the “wishbone” bomb mechanism to ensure proper clearance between the bomb and propeller blades when it is released during nearly vertical dives.

This aircraft crashed in Lake Michigan on May 14th, 1944, following engine failure after takeoff from the USS Sable, a modified excursion steamer used for training at Great Lakes Naval Air Station. The aircraft’s remains were retrieved from Lake Michigan in the mid-1990s and were subsequently restored to the fully flight-capable aircraft seen here.

Read about the artist's unique production process on his portfolio page.