The Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.5 was flown by some of the greatest Allied aces during the First World War - such as Billy Bishop, James McCudden and Edward Mannock. The aircraft had great success during the First World War ans 5,000 were produced. it was one of the most important and influential aircraft of the war and by 1918 the S.E.5 equipped 21 British Empire squadrons.
The painting depicts "Mick" Mannock VC, DSO & Two Bars, MC & Bar flying his SE5A whilst with no. 74 squadron. Mick Mannock became the most successful British fighter pilot of WWI.