Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Royalty
RAF aircraft of Bomber Command dropping cigarettes over the German occupied Netherlands for civilians to celebrate Queen Wilhelminas birthday, World War II, 1941 (colour litho)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
RAF aircraft of Bomber Command dropping cigarettes over the German occupied Netherlands for civilians to celebrate Queen Wilhelminas birthday, World War II, 1941 (colour litho)
6030891 RAF aircraft of Bomber Command dropping cigarettes over the German occupied Netherlands for civilians to celebrate Queen Wilhelminas birthday, World War II, 1941 (colour litho) by English School, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: RAF aircraft of Bomber Command dropping cigarettes over the German occupied Netherlands for civilians to celebrate Queen Wilhelminas birthday, World War II, 1941. Illustration from Salute to Victory, promotional booklet for State Express cigarettes, London, c1945.); Look and Learn / Valerie Jackson Harris Collection
Media ID 22570152
© Look and Learn / Valerie Jackson Harris Collection / Bridgeman Images
1940 1949 19401949 1940s Aeroplane Aeroplanes Air Vehicle Airfraft Airplane Airplanes Audacious Beams Birthday Bombers Cigarettes Civilians Dropped Dropping Fighter Aircraft Forties Morale Boosting Motor Plane Nineteen Forties Occupied Parachutes Plane Queen Wilhelmina Searchlights Second World War The Forties World War 2 World War Ii World War Two Wwii Benelux Countries Dutch Netherlands Hollander Hollanders Netherland Netherlands Holland Dutch Occupation The Netherland
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> Related Images
> Europe
> Netherlands
> Aviation
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Royalty
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Transport
> Aviation
> Related Images
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> English School
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a remarkable moment during World War II when RAF aircraft of Bomber Command dropped cigarettes over the German-occupied Netherlands to celebrate Queen Wilhelmina's birthday in 1941. The image, rendered in vibrant color lithography, showcases the audacious act of morale boosting by British forces. In this historical snapshot, we witness the night sky illuminated by searchlight beams as parachutes gracefully descend from above. These parachutes carry precious cargo - cigarettes for the Dutch civilians who endured occupation under German rule. The brave pilots and crews risked their lives to bring a momentary respite and joy to those living under oppression. The scene is filled with symbolism and significance. It represents not only an act of solidarity between nations but also a testament to human resilience amidst adversity. The planes soaring overhead symbolize freedom and hope, while the dropping cigarettes serve as tokens of camaraderie and support. This powerful image was originally featured in "Salute to Victory" a promotional booklet for State Express cigarettes published in London around 1945. Its inclusion in this collection speaks volumes about its historical importance and artistic value. As we gaze upon this photograph, we are transported back to a time when acts of kindness held immeasurable weight. It serves as a reminder that even amidst war's darkest moments, humanity can find ways to uplift one another – offering solace through unexpected gestures like these airborne gifts from above.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
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.
