91ST BOMB GROUP USAAF, RAF BASSINGBOURN NOSE-ART FOR A B-17 FLYING FORTRESS, 1943-1944. A two sided painting of a shocked woman with her dress blown up to reveal her undergarments (displayed on the reverse) painted on green rattan with one woodenrung at the top and bottom. A printed paper tag attached to the upper rung reads: "Miss Barbara" and "Painted in 1943 or "44 by Cpl. Tony Starcer the resident artist of the 91st BG Bassingbourne, England. The original painting graced the fuselage of Air Corps serial #41 – 24519 8th USAAF B-17 Flying Fortress." The 91st Bomb Group (Heavy) was an air combat unit of the United States Army Air Forces during the Second World War, based at RAF Bassingbourn andoperating with the 8th Air Force. The heavy action and high casualties sustained by the unit led many airmen to seek distraction in the form of art, whether serious, humorous or titillating. Corporal Anthony L. Starcer was line mechanic forthe 91st, painting many pieces of regular and nose art, including the George Petty "Telephone Girl" for the famous Boeing B-17F Flying Fortress "Memphis Belle." Approx. 24" x 40-1/2". There is a tear above the head, and other areas of wear.