Spring Military Aviation and Militaria Auction
Lot 85:
Description
This lot consists of two original black and white silver gelatin publicity photographs produced for the 1956 biographical film Reach for the Sky. The photographs depict scenes and promotional poses based on the life of Royal Air Force ace Group Captain Sir Douglas Bader. The first photograph features actor Kenneth More in character, standing on the propeller spinner of a fighter aircraft. He is wearing a life preserver, specifically a Pattern 1932 or 1941 Mae West, over his service dress. He is also equipped with a parachute harness featuring a visible ripcord D-ring, a flight helmet with an external wiring loom, and leather flying boots consistent with the 1939 or 1941 pattern. The second photograph shows a Hawker Hurricane aircraft during a low-light scene, identifiable by its fabric-covered rear fuselage and cockpit canopy design. The aircraft displays the squadron code OR-X and a Type A1 fuselage roundel. One figure is shown climbing into the cockpit while another stands on the ground. These photographs were created for promotional use and showcase the period-accurate equipment and aircraft utilized in the film production.
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