A very rare Robert Taylor Limited Edition book and print set. Air Combat Painting Volume II with the matching numbered print Defence of the Realm.

The book: this second volume of Robert Taylor's aviation paintings is packed with classic images, the limited edition prints of which are highly prized by collectors, with virtually all of them commanding high secondary market premiums. The first 20 pages contain a narrative about Robert Taylor by friend Charles Walker, mostly concentrating on areas such as particular commissions, Robert's approach to painting, his personality and philosophy, and his relationship with the many famous aviators that he came to know.

The remainder of the book focuses on 24 of Robert Taylor's aviation paintings. Each painting is described by the artist and supplemented with plenty of pencil sketches and anecdotes. As usual with publications by David and Charles the presentation is superb throughout. Foreword is by Group Captain Peter Townsend, CVO, DSO, DFC. The paintings section is introduced by Colonel Don Lopez.

It is presented in a high quality blue cloth slip case with the artist’s signature gold blocked on the front cover. The book is signed and numbered inside by the artist.

Authors: Charles Walker and Robert Taylor.

Colour plates: 39    Pages: 128    ISBN: 0-7153-9889-X

The print: Defence of the Realm depicts the 85 Squadron Hurricane of Commanding Officer Peter Townsend banking over the River Thames in London during the Battle of Britain, a symbolic portrayal paying tribute to the Hawker Hurricane and its legendary pilots.

The print is signed by Group Captain Peter Townsend, CVO, DSO, DFC.

Condition: this book and print set was purchased directly from ourselves when it was published in 1991. It was then carefully stored with long term investment in mind and has only just become available. Both book and print are in mint condition, the book has clearly never been read. The original Certificate of Authenticity is included - it is itself in perfect condition. This book and print set come up for sale very rarely and hardly ever in this sort of condition.