Keith Reynolds (American, B. 1929) "Japanese Warships Nagara and Isuzu" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Canvas Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which appeared on the Republic of the Marshall Islands 45c Japanese Warships Nagara and Isuzu stamp issued September 23, 1994. April 1922 marked the launching of the light cruiser Nagara. Characterized by its long, narrow hull, this vessel was capable of sailing at a top speed of 36 knots. The following year the Isuzu took its maiden voyage as well. In the same class as the Nagara, the Isuzu was once captained by Isoroku Yamamoto, famed World War II admiral of the Japanese fleet. When the island of Tarawa fell to the Allies in November 1943, these ships quickly became involved in troop movements around Kwajalein and Mili islands in the Marshalls. However, in February 1944 the Japanese lost Kwajalein as well. Image Size: 14 x 24 in. Overall Size: 20 x 24 in. Unframed. (B14776)