Parachute exhibition poster, 1854 C014 / 0529
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Parachute exhibition poster, 1854 C014 / 0529
Parachute exhibition poster. 19th-century poster advertising an exhibition of a model of the parachute-glider apparatus used by French aeronaut Louis Charles Letur during his last and fatal flight. Letur ascended from Cremorne Gardens, by the River Thames in Chelsea, London, UK, on 27 June 1854. He was carried aloft under a balloon piloted by W. H. Adams, but Letur died from injuries when the release mechanism failed the second time and the descent of the balloon dragged him through trees. The exhibition was located at the Elephant and Castle in Old Kent Road in August of that year. Image from the Tissandier Collection
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9227253
© LIBRARY OF CONGRESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1854 Advert Aeronautics August Aviation Browned Browning Curiosity Death Died Display English Language Exhibit Exhibition Fatal Flying Machine Glider History Of Flight June London Parachute Poster Printed Text Public Display Tourism Transport Transportation Cremorne Gardens Elephant And Castle Gliders Manor Street Old Kent Road
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a 19th-century poster advertising an extraordinary parachute exhibition. The poster depicts the model of the parachute-glider apparatus used by French aeronaut Louis Charles Letur during his ill-fated final flight in 1854. The exhibition took place at Cremorne Gardens, nestled along the picturesque River Thames in Chelsea, London. Letur's ascent on that fateful day was facilitated by W. H. Adams piloting a balloon, but tragedy struck when the release mechanism failed during descent, causing Letur to be dragged through trees and ultimately succumb to his injuries. This fatal incident adds an air of intrigue and historical significance to this remarkable display. The exhibition itself was held later that year at Elephant and Castle in Old Kent Road, attracting curious visitors eager to witness technological marvels firsthand. This image from the Tissandier Collection offers us a glimpse into this momentous event in aviation history. Transporting us back to a time when flight was still considered an audacious dream, this monochrome print evokes both awe and melancholy as it captures not only Letur's glider but also the spirit of innovation prevalent during that era. It serves as a poignant reminder of how far we have come in our quest for airborne exploration while honoring those who bravely paved the way for modern aviation.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.