RARE ORIGINAL FRAMED PHOTOGRAPH – GERMAN ZEPPELIN ABOVE YACHT REGATTA – GEORGE TRUBEY, CARDIFF FRAMER

This extraordinary, professionally framed photograph captures a surreal juxtaposition of maritime grace and aerial innovation — a rigid German Zeppelin soaring above a fleet of racing yachts, most likely from the pre-WWI or early interwar period. The scene presents a stunning collision of two defining technological pursuits of the era: seafaring sport and airship mastery.

Historical Context:

The photograph likely dates to the late Imperial German period or early 1920s, when Zeppelin airships such as the LZ 127 Graf Zeppelin or even earlier military models like the LZ 10 Schwaben were still in regular flight and regularly used for propaganda and grand public spectacles. The yachts, with their gaff-rigged sails, resemble those used in international regattas and elite racing circles of the Kaiser's era — possibly tied to the Kaiserlicher Yacht Club or transnational sailing events.

Visual Composition:

• The image depicts six yachts gracefully cutting across a calm sea with full sails extended, likely mid-race.

• Dominating the sky is a large German Zeppelin, angled downward as if banking or descending, its shape and orientation lending dramatic intensity to the photo.

• The visual contrast between the dark rigging of the ships and the looming Zeppelin against a muted, cloudy sky adds depth and movement to this carefully composed image.

Frame & Provenance:

• The photograph is professionally double-matted in a classic gold and neutral-toned inner frame, encased in a thick, vintage wooden outer frame showing period wear.

• On the reverse is a second, original photographic print of the same image, affixed in a protective sleeve.

• A framed label from George Trubey, fine art dealer and restorer based at 26 Queen Street Arcade, Cardiff, authenticates the item's historic handling. Trubey was active in the early-to-mid 20th century and associated with the Fine Art Trade Guild.

Dimensions:

• Approximate frame size: 19.5 x 17.5 inches (outer frame)

• Visible photograph size: ~11 x 9 inches

• Wired and ready to hang.

Condition:

• Photograph is clean and well-preserved behind glass, with no fading or foxing observed.

• Frame shows signs of honest age — including light scuffing and wear to the wood and paper backing — consistent with a near-century-old presentation.

• Secondary photo print on reverse is preserved in good condition within a plastic sleeve.

Collector’s Appeal:

This is a visually striking and highly unusual period photograph that will appeal to collectors of:

• German aviation and Zeppelin memorabilia

• Imperial and interwar maritime photography

• Naval or regatta history

• Early 20th-century visual propaganda

• Mixed-transport or cross-genre collectors

Perfect as a display centerpiece in a study, war room, or naval-themed gallery wall.