To purchase this print, please to order the item from HobbyLink Japan, our distribution partner.
First flying in 1949, the Fairey Gannet boasted the "Double Mamba" twin engine, which powered the plane's two contra-rotating propellers. For long, anti-submarine missions, one of these could be stopped in order to conserve fuel. Besides marine patrols, the Gannet was later pressed into service as an electronic warfare platform, and a cargo plane. Of course, like any carrier-based plane, the Gannet had foldable wings, but rather then being hinged at one point, the Gannet's wings had two folds that collapsed them into a 'Z' shape when stored.
One of Koike's great strengths is finding ways to make aircraft look their best, even when they may not be particularly great-looking planes. This dynamic view of the lumpy Gannet must be included as one of his finest efforts in that category. "While she probably lumbered, the plane looks rather ferocious and determined, plus there's that big belly which no doubt has something scary hidden within. I sure wouldn't want to have something like that after me." A close examination of this painting reveals remarkable levels of detail -- down to the individual instruments -- within the cockpit.
This print is reproduced on heavy art board and sized identically to the original, measuring 400mm x 315mm (15.75 x 12.4 inches). It's offset-printed, and the color reproduction has been approved by Koike himself. The art board measures 625mm x 453mm (24.6 x 17.8 inches), leaving white borders around the image to give you the freedom to have it framed as you please. The prints are packed in a special sleeve inside a sturdy shipping box designed to prevent any bending while on their way to you (for this reason, they cannot be combined with other types of items for shipping, they will be shipped separately, even if ordered with other items).