Original photograph by Hélène Boucher, Silver print on Bristol board 1930

Rare vintage photograph depicting Hélène Boucher (1908–1934), a major figure in French aviation. This original black and white silver print shows the smiling aviator wearing a leather flight helmet and goggles. The image, emblematic of the rise of female pilots in the 1930s, is beautifully sharp. The print is mounted on original stiff Bristol board with an integrated mount, typical of studio presentations of the period. The overall image exhibits a uniform patina, with visible moisture stains at the bottom of the mount, but without alteration to the image. Dimensions of the photograph alone: 16 X 22 cm; complete mount: approximately 25 X 30 cm. No markings or annotations on the verso. This portrait may have originated from an official or press photo shoot, related to the numerous speed records Hélène Boucher set before her tragic death at the age of 26. Original documents depicting her remain rare and highly sought after.