Montgolfier Balloon Model, ca. 1946-47
This painted wooden model represents the invention of the hot air balloon by the Montgolfier brothers in France, who are responsible for launching the age of air. On September 19, 1783, the brothers demonstrated their invention for King Louis XVI at Versailles, sending the first passengers skyward – a sheep, a duck, and a rooster. The balloon is decorated with golden flourishes, zodiac signs, and suns which are all symbols honoring the King.
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