SUPERMARINE SPITFIRE

A limited of exquisite miniature desk-top sculptures crafted of Duralumin* metal originating from “P7350”, the oldest airworthy Spitfire in existence.

One of the most attractive and tactile tributes to the Spitfire ever created, these sculptures, which are entirely hand crafted in England to the highest standard, are intended as a desk-piece or paperweight and consequently possess functionality as well as form. The little Spitfire is an exquisite miniature, presented in TMB’s “Essence of Form” house style, portraying just the basic shape of the Battle of Britain era Spitfire, with no fine detail.

Measuring just 10 cms in wingspan, the sculptures are mounted via a purposeful hand engineered brass and steel ball and socket upon a turned wooden cone, this affixed to a brass base plate providing weight and low centre of gravity. The diameter of the base is 6 cms and with the sculpture in horizontal flight the piece measures about 13 cms in height. The flexible mounting permits the sculpture to be moved to various angles of “flight” or removed in entirety.

In 2008 P7350 underwent a restoration programme during which a quantity of original Duralumin components were removed and it is of this original 1940 ex-P7350 provenance metal that our sculptures are exclusively crafted. Duralumin is an alloy comprising approximately 94% aluminium, 4% copper, 1.5% magnesium and .5% manganese developed in the early 20th century and used extensively in aircraft construction due to its light weight and strength. As with aluminium, Duralumin takes, and retains, a high polish without corrosion or oxidation, the light reflecting on the surfaces as the sculpture is moved through different positions being aesthetically very pleasing.

The sculptures are mounted upon cones of yew, a wood with pronounced grain resulting in every one being visually unique. The cones are lacquered, both to enhance the grain and seal the wood against handling. This wood also has provenance, being made of a tree that stands at Elderslie in Scotland, Sir William Wallace’s birth place and estate. William Wallace, who became an iconic figure in Scotland’s fight for independence, led the defeat of the English at the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297. Sadly, the 1,000 year old Wallace yew was split in two in a storm in 2005, the 700th anniversary of Wallace’s death, and while part of it still stands, a section was beyond saving, and it is from this ancient timber that our base cones are handmade.

Each sculpture is numbered and marked with the Spitfire’s registration “P7350” on the underside. Also, sculptures are accompanied by a certificate of provenance personally signed by Christopher Bennett, TMB Art Metal’s founder and designer of the piece.

A limited edition of 100 sculptures

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