Char B at Stonne by David Pentland. [Original Drawing]

France, 15th-17th May 1940. The French offensive at Stonne was of vital importance following the German capture of Sedan. The French could use it as a base from which to launch long-term attacks on the enemy bridgeheads. In this innocuous town, a vicious two-day battle took place in which the Germans came face to face with the premier French tank, the Char B-Bis for the only time. One of these tanks, commanded by Pierre Billotte, proved invulnerable to German anti-tank fire and took 140 hits, and knocked out 13 German tanks. The town changed hands 17 times but ultimately the French failed to hold it.

Original pencil drawing by David Pentland.

Image size 16 inches x 12 inches (41cm x 31cm)