World War I Italian Alsaldo A.1 Balilla Original Linen Relic Display

World War I Italian Alsaldo A.1 Balilla Original Linen Relic Display by Ron Cole

Extremely rare 1x1-inch section of doped linen from this important and historic aircraft, flown in action by the Italian aviator Antonio Locatelli - and depicted in this original artwork by Ron Cole.

The Ansaldo A.1, nicknamed ‘Balilla’ after the Genoan folk-hero, was Italy’s only domestically- designed fighter aircraft of World War I to be produced in Italy. A beautiful aircraft, it saw more action as a symbol of national pride, than in actual combat. This example, flown by the famous Italian aviator, Antonio Locatelli, survives in unrestored condition in the Museo dell'Aeronautica Gianni Caproni, from which this piece of original linen was acquired. 

This piece of material has been carefully cut from a larger section that originated from the underside of the upper wing. Very well preserved, with some flaking of the yellowed dope. 

Each of these limited edition displays is shipped nicely framed in our new Made-in-USA 11x17-inch black brushed frames, signed and numbered, ready-to-hang.

Very limited!