Short Calcutta

Only seven examples of the Short Calcutta were ever built.  Operated by Imperial Airways in the Mediterranean starting in 1928, this three-engined seaplane had a somewhat unique configuration, in that the pilot and co-pilot flew the aircraft from an open cockpit, while the radio operator and up to 15 passengers flew in comfort in the enclosed cabin.  Koike's painting features G-EBVG, the first Calcutta to fly, with a beautiful panorama of Mediterranean scenery in the background.  The blue tones of the sea seem to spill elegantly onto the airframe and land as well in this work, creating a sense of airy freshness.