ART-Poster, Original Art Quality — ROSIE'S CREW / THORPE ABBOTTS 1943 — Gil Cohen — Signed by Robert Rosenthal — 222/900 — Framed

Characteristics

Description

This limited edition art print, reproduced from an original oil painting by noted historical artist Gil Cohen, captures a pivotal moment in World War II aviation history. Pilot Lt. Robert 'Rosie' Rosenthal briefs his crew on last minute details before boarding 'Rosie's Riveters,' a B-17 of the 418th Squadron, 100th Bomb Group, Eighth U.S. Army Air Force, at their home base of Thorpe Abbotts, England.

This was the first of three tours of duty for 'Rosie' with the 'Bloody One-Hundredth.' Before Germany's surrender, he would fly a total of 52 combat missions and attain the rank of Colonel. The painting depicts Rosenthal and his crew going over last minute details before taking off on another mission over Nazi-occupied Europe.

This print is number 222 of 900 in the standard edition, published by Knightsbridge Press in Doylestown, PA. Each print has been signed by the artist and individually countersigned by Robert 'Rosie' Rosenthal himself, one of the most decorated pilots in the U.S. Eighth Air Force.

ROSIE'S CREW / THORPE ABBOTTS 1943 — GIL COHEN

Limited Edition 222/900 — Signed by Gil Cohen and Lt. Col. Robert “Rosie” Rosenthal — Original Print Documentation — Framed

Description

Rosie's Crew / Thorpe Abbotts 1943 is a remarkable Second World War aviation artwork by renowned American historical artist Gil Cohen.

The painting depicts Lieutenant Robert “Rosie” Rosenthal briefing his B-17 Flying Fortress crew before another dangerous combat mission over German-occupied Europe.

The scene takes place at RAF Thorpe Abbotts in England, the wartime home of the United States Eighth Air Force's 100th Bombardment Group, famously known as the Bloody Hundredth.

The aircraft in the background is Rosie's Riveters, a B-17 Flying Fortress of the 418th Bombardment Squadron.

Cohen's detailed composition captures the human dimension of the air war: ten young airmen gathered beside their aircraft, checking equipment and discussing their mission before departure.

Unlike many aviation paintings that emphasise aircraft in flight, this work focuses on the men behind the machines, conveying both their determination and the uncertainty of wartime flying.

Historical Context — The Bloody Hundredth

The 100th Bombardment Group became one of the most recognised American bomber units operating from England during the Second World War.

Flying Boeing B-17 Flying Fortresses, its crews participated in the Eighth Air Force's daylight strategic bombing campaign against targets in occupied Europe and Germany.

The group earned its famous nickname, the Bloody Hundredth, following exceptionally heavy losses during combat operations.

On 10 October 1943, Robert Rosenthal piloted a B-17 during the disastrous mission against Münster, Germany. His aircraft was the only bomber from his group's formation to return to Thorpe Abbotts.

Rosenthal went on to complete 52 combat missions, becoming one of the most decorated American bomber pilots of the war.

After the war, he also served as a lawyer with the American prosecution team at the Nuremberg Trials.

About the Artist — Gil Cohen (born 1931)

Gil Cohen is an American aviation and historical artist, born in Philadelphia on 28 July 1931.

He studied at the Philadelphia Museum School of Art, graduating in 1953, before serving in the United States Army during the Cold War.

Cohen subsequently developed a distinguished career as an illustrator, teacher and painter of military history.

His artwork has appeared in publications, museums and aviation collections, earning him recognition among the leading artists specialising in military aviation subjects.

Particularly admired for his portrayal of aircrew experiences, Cohen frequently places the human story at the centre of his compositions.

Robert “Rosie” Rosenthal (1917–2007)

Lieutenant Colonel Robert “Rosie” Rosenthal was one of the most distinguished B-17 pilots of the United States Eighth Air Force.

Born on 11 June 1917, he served with the 418th Bombardment Squadron of the 100th Bombardment Group.

He completed 52 combat missions, survived being shot down and received numerous decorations for courage and distinguished service.

Rosenthal died on 20 April 2007.

His original signature provides an exceptional historical connection between this artwork and the wartime events it commemorates.

Original Signatures and Documentation

This example is individually numbered 222/900, belonging to the standard limited edition of 900 prints.

The artwork bears two original pencil signatures:

• Gil Cohen — the artist.

• Lieutenant Colonel Robert “Rosie” Rosenthal — the wartime B-17 pilot depicted in the painting.

The accompanying original Print Documentation issued by Knightsbridge Press confirms the edition, the artist's signature and Rosenthal's personal countersignature.

Collectors' Interest

An evocative and historically significant aviation artwork bringing together Gil Cohen's acclaimed portrayal of American bomber crews and the original signature of legendary Eighth Air Force pilot Robert “Rosie” Rosenthal.

The print's individually numbered edition, original publisher documentation and attractive framing make it an appealing collectible for enthusiasts of the B-17 Flying Fortress, the 100th Bomb Group and signed Second World War aviation art.

Shipping & Click & Collect

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