The Bristol Fighter was a maneuverable, heavily armed two-seater biplane, and one of the most successful fighters of the war. It got off to a poor start during "Bloody April" when it was introduced to the Western Front by the inexperienced pilots. Believing that the aircraft was structurally weak, pilots avoided violent maneuvers during combat. It was soon realized, however, that the Bristol fighter was actually a very sturdy aircraft that could be maneuvered as if it were a single seat fighter with rear protection. Bristol crews met with great success by using their aircraft in that capacity. By the end of the war over 240 pilots and gunners achieved ace status in the type.
Two Birds with One Stone depicts an engagement on Sept. 6, 1918, in which Capt. H.P. Lale and 2/Lt H.L. Edwards achieved simultaneous victories against Fokker DVIIs while flying Bristol fighter E'2181. Lale's combat report reads as follows:
"One Fokker Biplane passed within 30 yards of Bristol Fighter E2181. Capt. Lale put about 50 rounds into it and sent it down in flames. The observer (2/Lt Edwards) was in the meantime firing with double Lewis gun at another E.A. about 40 yards away on the left. This E.A. first spun, then appeared to gain control, but a few seconds later burst into flames. Both these E.A. appeared to be falling into the middle of St. Quentin."
Two Birds With One Stone is available in 3 editions:
- - Giclee prints on paper: Printed on acid free rag paper, The prints measure 25" x 17.25" (image area 21" x 12.75"). The edition consists of 250 prints, each of which is signed and numbered by Russell Smith.
- - Gilcee prints on canvas: Prints on canvas measure 25.5" x 15.5". The canvas edition consists of only 20 prints, each of which is signed and numbered on the back.
- - Special DFC Edition giclee prints on canvas: This special edition of prints on canvas measure 44" x 27" - 100% size of the original painting! I'm only making 20 of these available. Each is signed and numbered on the back.
Details of Two Birds With One Stone
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