Fig. A. The Flying Ship. p. 297.
Print, Etching on Paper, Uncolored, FIG. A. THE FLYING SHIP. P. 297.
Uncolored etching of "The Flying Ship" proposed by the Jesuit Bartolomeu de Gusmão (1685-1724). On August 8, 1709, Gusmão is said to have flown a small balloon before the court in the Casa da Índia in Lisbon. The image in question may be a representation of a heavier-than-air machine proposed by Gusmão, or more likely, a representation of a proposed large balloon drawn by someone unfamiliar with the actual appearance of Gusmão's design. The craft is shown aloft with clouds and sun in the background. It features a bird-like shape and decorations. The operator sits in the open body of the bird with a telescope and globes. Oars are provided for propulsion. Parts are marked with letters A-I, but no key is present.
Print, Etching on Paper, Uncolored, FIG. A. THE FLYING SHIP. P. 297.
Uncolored etching of "The Flying Ship" proposed by the Jesuit Bartolomeu de Gusmão (1685-1724). On August 8, 1709, Gusmão is said to have flown a small balloon before the court in the Casa da Índia in Lisbon. The image in question may be a representation of a heavier-than-air machine proposed by Gusmão, or more likely, a representation of a proposed large balloon drawn by someone unfamiliar with the actual appearance of Gusmão's design. The craft is shown aloft with clouds and sun in the background. It features a bird-like shape and decorations. The operator sits in the open body of the bird with a telescope and globes. Oars are provided for propulsion. Parts are marked with letters A-I, but no key is present.
Fanciful Flying Ship
This is a fanciful flying ship proposed by the Brazilian Jesuit Bartolomeu de Gusmão (1685–1724). Gusmão is said to have flown a small balloon before the Portuguese court in Lisbon’s Casa da India on August 8, 1709. Etching from a publication, English, 18th century
Display Status:
This object is on display in the Hangar Overlook at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
