German Aircraft
Original vintage Second World War poster

Lithograph
51 x 71 cm
c.1941-1944

This original vintage poster, published in 1941, depicts a series of German aircraft, including the fighter plane Messcherschmitt BF 109, the Junkers Ju 87 “Stuka” – a dive bomber known for its accuracy and infamous siren–, and the Heinkel He 111–the Luftwaffe’s main medium bomber, used extensively in the Blitz. In these black-and-white technical drawings, each German aircraft is depicted from different angles, providing a clear view of their shape and markings, making it a crucial tool for aircraft reconnaissance.

During the Second World War, the Ministry of Information produced a number of posters detailing the differences between British and German aircraft. In general, they were designed to help British civilians and military personnel identify enemy aircraft, distinguishing them from Allied planes. This poster is marked in the top left-hand corner as being confidential, suggesting that it was restricted to military use, rather than public distribution and served as educational tool to train pilots, anti-aircraft gunners, and air raid wardens to distinguish German planes from friendly or neutral aircraft.

This is an excellent example of WWII military intelligence and training material, demonstrating how Allied forces prepared for German aerial threats.

Condition: Generally very good. Slight age toning and spotting to paper, small tears at the edges and tape stains that will be covered by mount.

If you would like to know more, please email info@manningfineart.co.uk or call us on 07929 749056.