Losing Gallery

Gloster GA.5 Javelin 2nd prototype WD808

Gloster GA.5 Javelin 2nd prototype WD808, seen taxiing for take-off, at the 1952 SBAC Farnborough Air Show. First flown on 21 August 1952, only 10 days before the public debut of the new Javelin fighter. Note that the first prototype, WD804, had flown on 21 November 1951 and crashed at Boscombe Down on 29 June 1952 after losing the elevators to flutter. Photograph date 1-7 September 1952. Date: 1952

© (c) The Peter Butt Aviation Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library

Bonzo's dud show by George Studdy

Bonzo's dud show. He had been expecting first prize, but loses out to two pedigree dogs, a bull terrier and a bulldog. George Ernest Studdy (1878-1948), was the creator of 'Bonzo', a small dog with saucer-like eyes and indiscriminate breeding who first appeared in the Sketch in 1922. The 'Bonzo' craze swept the world resulting in postcards, annuals, toys and other merchandise. Credit should read: Estate of George Studdy/Gresham Marketing Ltd./ILN/Mary Evans Date: 4 July 1923

© Estate of George Studdy/Gresham Marketing Ltd./ILN/Mary Evans

Balloon designs by Charles & Robert and Montgolfier

Balloon designs by Charles and Robert (1, 5) and the Montgolfier Brothers (2, 3, 4). No. 3 ascended from Versailles. No. 4 ascended from the Chateau de la Muette. No. 5 ascended from the Tuileries Gardens. With a vignette of Jupiter giving the crown to the Montgolfiers. Mercury is shown distraught at the fear of losing his job (ie as a flying messenger of the gods). Below is an allegorical female figure representing the River Seine, from where the pioneers ascended. The Latin motto reads: Stat Sine Morte Decus -- their honour is immortal.
circa 1780s

© The Royal Aeronautical Society (National Aerospace Library)/Mary Evans