Home > Europe > Italy > Lombardy > Milan
Sophie Blanchard in balloon ascent, Milan
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Sophie Blanchard in balloon ascent, Milan
Sophie Blanchard (1778-1819), famous French aeronaut, in a night-time balloon ascent performed in Milan, Italy, in the presence of Napoleon, to mark his 42nd birthday.
15 August 1811
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 7475223
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10610338
1811 42nd Aeronaut Ascent Ballooning Birthday Blanchard Gondola Milan Napoleon Performed Presence Sophie
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> Italy
> Lombardy
> Milan
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> Royal Aeronautical Society
EDITORS COMMENTS
This image captures the daring and fearless spirit of Sophie Blanchard, a pioneering French aeronaut, as she ascends into the night sky above Milan, Italy, during a breathtaking hot air balloon ascent on the occasion of Napoleon Bonaparte's 42nd birthday, on August 15, 1811. The photograph, taken from a distance, shows Sophie standing confidently in the wicker gondola of her balloon, her silhouette illuminated against the inky blackness of the night. The city of Milan, with its grand architecture and illuminated buildings, forms a stunning backdrop to the scene, adding an air of elegance and sophistication to the event. Napoleon, the renowned military and political leader, was known for his fascination with transportation and innovation, and the spectacle of a night-time balloon ascent would have been an impressive display of both. Sophie Blanchard, who had already gained fame for her daring flights across Europe, was a natural choice to perform for the occasion. Her skill and bravery were undeniable, as she had already survived numerous accidents and mishaps during her career. The image is a testament to the allure and excitement of early aviation, a time when the skies were still a frontier waiting to be explored. Sophie Blanchard's daring ascent in Milan marked a significant moment in the history of ballooning, and her legacy continues to inspire awe and admiration to this day. This photograph, captured by an unknown photographer, is a precious reminder of a bygone era, when the impossible seemed within reach and the skies were the limit.
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.
![St. James Cheltenham - Amendements to Parcels Office, Waiting Room ect [29 / 05 / 1951]](/sq/229/st-james-cheltenham-amendements-parcels-8788220.jpg.webp)
