Original metal panel from a World War II–era aircraft featuring later hand-painted ‘nose art’ depicting a Vargas-inspired pinup girl and the text “Night Take Off,” 22 x 25.75, signed in the lower right by the artist, “Sgt. Fred Hayner, 8th Air Force, 1944–45.” In fine condition. Hayner was an airplane mechanic assigned to the 434th Fighter Squadron during World War II and became the unit’s painter once his artistic talent was discovered while stationed abroad. Much of his work has been displayed at the Wings of Freedom Museum in Huntington, Indiana. This popular artwork boosted morale for pilots and air crews, and remains some of the most enduring imagery of WWII.
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