Skip to product information
1 of 4

Study of Santos-Dumont's legacy for aviation (post-World War II)

Study of Santos-Dumont's legacy for aviation (post-World War II)

Regular price R$ 1.200,00 BRL
Regular price Sale price R$ 1.200,00 BRL
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.

Free shipping

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Digital Warranty ©

After the Second World War, a British aeronautics expert recognized Santos-Dumont's enormous legacy to aviation.

  • Typed text on Santos-Dumont's legacy to aviation, written by an unknown British expert, perhaps for a specialist magazine.
  • 4 pages.
  • In English.
  • +/- 21 cm x 28 cm.
  • The references to World War II suggest that the document was written at least after the end of that conflict.
  • Good condition.
  • On one of the pages, there are two photographs with the text (translated): Santos-Dumont's Dragon Fly or Demoiselle monoplanes in Belmont Park, New York (below) and Havana, Cuba (above) in 1910-1911.

Some excerpts translated into Portuguese

Most aircraft used in World War II incorporated the following engineering features, which evolved and were first demonstrated by Alberto Santos-Dumont in 1909: the single high wing, engines and propellers in front of and in line with the wing, the body below the wing, which tapers into a tail where the airfoils used as controls are located.

Few people appreciated the importance of these mechanical principles in 1909, when Santos-Dumont first demonstrated their efficiency in a small monoplane called the Dragonfly or Demoiselle. Experts acknowledged the plane's efficiency when it was flown at St. Cyr—the French military academy—and from St. Cyr across the country to nearby towns. It was faster than anything else, stable, and so simple and practical that it could be transported on a small trailer.

The price of this airplane was only 7,500 francs, so people could have one complete with all the extras for $1,000.00. Distinguished aviators such as Roland Garros and A. Audemars brought Demoiselles to America and flew them at the Belmont aviation meet in October 1910, and at Baltimore and other southern cities, as well as Havana, Cuba, in early 1911. About a hundred Demoiselles were in use when monoplanes were condemned as unsafe due to a series of tragedies caused by the wings folding in midair. Although the Demoiselle was a monoplane, its principles eliminated the dangers of the Bleriot and Antoinette monoplane types. Although this was already well established, the world smiled and passed over the very airplane that time has proven to be the greatest fundamental contribution to the science of mechanics in airplane design!

This 4-page study, likely written after World War II, explores Santos-Dumont’s legacy to aviation. It highlights how Santos-Dumont’s Dragon Fly and Demoiselle monoplanes demonstrated fundamental engineering principles that would later be used in large aircraft such as clippers, air transports, and stratoliners during World War II. The document mentions features such as the high wing, the forward-facing engine and propeller, and the aerodynamic design of the body that tapers to the tail with airfoils, highlighting Santos-Dumont’s lasting influence on modern aviation.

This document is interesting coming from a British person because it acknowledges and values ​​the pioneering impact of Santos-Dumont, a Brazilian, on world aviation, highlighting his influence on technologies used in the Second World War, which demonstrates an international appreciation for his legacy.

View full details

Frequently asked questions about the GLÒRIAS COLLECTION

Is there a physical store where I can see the items in person?

No. Glórias operates exclusively online because we serve collectors throughout Brazil and also abroad. If you wish to examine an item before purchase, we will be happy to send high-resolution photographs or additional information. Our team is located in Belo Horizonte (MG).

Do the items sold come with a certificate of authenticity?

Yes. All items available at Glórias have been carefully selected, studied, and certified before being offered for sale. Each purchase comes with a digital certificate of authenticity and guarantee, which we send via email. It is signed and stamped by Mathias Meyer, a French autograph expert since 2010 and a member of the ILAB (International League of Antiquarian Booksellers).

Who selects and certifies the items sold?

All items are selected and certified by Mathias Meyer, a French specialist in autographs, manuscripts, and historical documents since 2010. Throughout his career, he has studied thousands of pieces related to Brazilian history, sports, science, literature, and arts, and is now a member of ILAB (International League of Antiquarian Booksellers) and founder of Glórias.

How do I make a purchase?

You can purchase directly from the Glórias website, 24 hours a day, quickly and securely. If you prefer personalized service or have questions before purchasing, you can also contact us by email at contato@glorias.com.br or by WhatsApp at +55 (31) 98221-5758.

What are the payment methods?

We accept payment via Pix or bank transfer, both with a 3% discount for upfront payment, as well as credit card in up to 3 interest-free installments, offering convenience and security for customers across Brazil.

Can I pay for my purchase in installments?

Yes. You can pay in full via Pix or bank transfer with a 3% discount, or pay in up to 3 interest-free installments by credit card, with immediate shipping after payment confirmation. It is also possible to pay in up to 10 installments via Pix; in this case, shipping will be carried out after the full payment of the purchase.

Can I ask for a discount?

We offer a 3% discount for payments made in full (via Pix or bank transfer) or the option to pay in up to 3 interest-free installments by credit card. Furthermore, the prices of our pieces are carefully determined based on international market supply and demand, the specific characteristics of each item, and sales results of similar pieces. For this reason, we typically do not grant additional discounts. However, if you wish to purchase multiple pieces or make an exceptionally high-value purchase, we would be pleased to consider a special commercial arrangement.

How is delivery made? What will I receive?

Delivery time varies approximately from 1 to 10 business days, depending on the recipient's location. In Brazil, we mainly use SEDEX, and for international shipments, FedEx. The document is placed in an elegant laid paper folder and sent in completely discreet packaging. The digital certificate of authenticity and guarantee is sent by email, in PDF format, for security reasons. Shipping is free throughout Brazil. For international shipments, the shipping cost is a fixed R$ 500.00.

Can I return my purchase?

Yes. For online purchases, the Consumer Protection Code guarantees the right of withdrawal within 7 days of receiving the item. If you are not satisfied, simply contact us and we will respond promptly to find the best solution, which may include a full refund after the return and verification of the item.

What warranties come with the items?

All items sold by Glórias have a permanent guarantee against eventual certification errors, provided that such error is subsequently demonstrated and confirmed by Mathias Meyer. In this event, the buyer will be fully reimbursed. To date, this situation has never occurred. The guarantee does not cover natural alterations or damage caused by improper storage, exposure to light, humidity, insects, or any other external factor that may compromise the preservation of the paper or ink.

Can I resell this piece in the future?

Yes. Should you wish to sell your piece in the future, please contact us. We will be happy to guide you and help you find a new collector, either through a direct sale or through a specialized auction organized by Glórias.

How can I add value to my collection?

If your goal is to go beyond an isolated purchase, the ideal is to build a coherent collection around a theme, a personality, or a historical period, such as aviation pioneers, women who made history, love letters, old photographs of Rio de Janeiro, Oscar Niemeyer, Pelé, or Ayrton Senna. Mathias Meyer can guide you in forming a consistent collection, according to your interests, objectives, and budget.

How should I store my document or autograph?

To preserve your document in the best condition, we recommend against laminating it or keeping it permanently framed, as paper needs to breathe and prolonged exposure to light can accelerate its deterioration. Ideally, store it in a dry, dark, and clean place, protected from humidity, extreme temperatures, dust, and insects, ensuring its preservation for many decades.

Why aren't these pieces in museums?

Throughout history, much of the world's documentary heritage has been preserved thanks to private collectors and dealers. These enthusiasts of historical documents play a fundamental role in the discovery, study, and preservation of pieces that can later be loaned, donated, or sold to museums and other institutions. In Brazil, where many museums have limited financial resources and staff, this collaboration is even more important. Glórias maintains relationships with public institutions, museums, and researchers, both in Brazil and abroad, sharing discoveries, knowledge, and, in some cases, documents for exhibitions.

Can I offer you a part to buy?

With pleasure. The first step is to conduct a preliminary assessment, which will determine the level of authenticity, market value, and the best strategy for your piece. Depending on the outcome, there are several possibilities, such as direct sale, consignment, or a specialized auction.

Where do the parts sold by Glórias come from?

Every document has a unique story. Most of the pieces offered by Glórias were inherited from families who contacted us, while others were acquired at auctions, where they were poorly identified or undervalued, or came from antique dealers, collectors, or companies. Behind every rare document there is a singular trajectory, which makes collecting a fascinating way to preserve and transmit history.