The Tank Museum has received a donation of six original AFV artwork compositions by James Desmond Leech that featured in the Armour in Profile series in the 1960s.
In the 1960s plastic tank models became more readily available and the hobby was growing in popularity. Modellers pay close attention to detail, wanting to accurately recreate specific variants – and even particular vehicles.
The Armour in Profiles series was the first time leading subject specialists created literature specifically for modellers, highlighting different models of tanks.
The series was available as 24 collectible single issues or in the 1968 collected hardback format, and set a high visual standard.
Following the success of the profile series an expanded AFV/Weapon Profile series was subsequently launched and ran to 65 issues by 1974 and included James’ paintings.
Each monograph contained a centre spread section comprising five-view colour paintings of the AFV in question as well as a scaled dimensional guide. The majority of artworks featured specific Arm of Service/unit marking details, with the finished published artwork including a technical and unit information caption.
James painted six AFVs painted in gouache on cartridge paper on four British designs, one French, and one German. Due to their size, the guns were invariably shown in shortened form, with the muzzle brake on a separate section. The five views of the vehicles included both sides – front, rear, and top down.
Military Modelling magazine started around the same time, creating an increasing wealth of colour reference material available to the modeller and enthusiast.
