Charles J Lundgren (New York, Connecticut, 1911 - 1988) "Bon Homme Richard" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 32c Bonhomme Richard stamp issued October 10, 1995. The French people idolized America's Benjamin Franklin during the Revolutionary War. A symbol of liberty and a learned Renaissance man, this homespun-yet-brilliant American was a household word in Paris. Thus when the French donated the vessel Duc de Duras to the fledgling United States, it was refurbished and given a new name -- Bon Homme Richard -- in honor of the French translation of the famous pseudonym Franklin used in writing his popular Poor Richard's Almanac. The Bon Homme Richard was captained by John Paul Jones, and it was aboard this vessel that Jones would achieve his most notable success. On September 23, 1779, the Bon Homme Richard was engaged in battle by the formidable British frigate Serapis. When, early in the fight, the British captain demanded his surrender, Jones responded with the immortal words: "I have not yet begun to fight." Three hours later, the Serapis lowered its flag in submission to the courage and valor of the American crew. Unfortunately the Bon Homme Richard had been so seriously damaged that it shortly thereafter succumbed to a watery grave. Jones and his men sailed the Serapis and another captured British warship to safe haven in the Netherlands. He was later made a chevalier of France by King Louis XVI. Legendary maritime artist Charles Lundgren has captured the Bon Homme Richard under full sail in this exquisite painting. Image Size: 25 x 26 in. Overall Framed Size: 33.25 x 34.5 in. Framed behind plexi-glass. (B06169)