1 Images

The souvenir above and to the right was cut from a German observation balloon, most likely a Drachenballon (“kite” or “dragon” balloon). This type of balloon was developed by Austrians Maj. August von Parseval and Capt. Bartsch von Sigsfeld. The Allies nicknamed them “sausages” because of the balloons’ elongated shape.

Display Status

This object is on display in World War I: The Birth of Military Aviation at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.

World War I: The Birth of Military Aviation

Object Details

Type

CRAFT-Balloon Parts

Physical Description

Balloon fabric detailing a large black cross insignia with a light border surrounding the insignia.

Dimensions

2-D - In Frame (H x W x D) 214 × 214 × 7.6cm (7 ft. 1/4 in. × 7 ft. 1/4 in. × 3 in.)
2-D - Unframed (H x W): 202.6 × 202.6cm (6 ft. 7 3/4 in. × 6 ft. 7 3/4 in.)

Materials

Mercerized cotton doped with cellulose nitrate, talc filler, paint

Inventory Number

A20210104000

Credit Line

Transferred from the National Museum of the Marine Corps

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
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