Wolfpack Survivor, the story behind "Red Devil"

This limited edition fine art canvas includes a rare fragment of a WWII German Naval Battle Flag that flew at a U-boat base. The artwork depicts the German U-boat U-552 from World War II. Commanded by Erich Topp, U-552 was launched in 1940 and became one of the few German U-boats to survive the war. In 1945, the vessel was scuttled off the coast to prevent it from falling into enemy hands.

Details About the RELIC:

This 1937/1938 Reichskriegsflagge (German Naval "Battle Flag") was taken in 1945 from the U-Boat Base Killian in Kiel, a critical site for German naval operations during World War II. The flag, which bears the maker's mark of "Curt Brautigam Plauen," was torn from its hoist (the fabric strip at the base) and features a sewn-in rope, typical for flags used in naval service. The edges of the hoist are significantly reinforced, a necessity for flags subjected to the harsh conditions at sea.

Remnant of flag from U-Boat base Killian that is included with each canvas print

Accompanying the flag were various photographs of U-boat crews, showing them on patrol, on leave, and with their families (photos not available). Each "Red Devil" art canvas includes a fragment of the flag and has been carefully mounted using museum-quality techniques to ensure its longevity. The relic, once a symbol of Germany's naval power, is now a rare historical artifact reflecting the final days of World War II and the significance of U-boat operations from bases like Kiel.

Entire flag hoist showing the original markings and strip of red, black, and white penant material

Accompanying the flag were various photographs of U-boat crews, showing them on patrol, on leave, and with their families, though these images are not included. This flag has been carefully preserved using museum-quality techniques to ensure its longevity. The relic, once a symbol of Germany's naval power, is now a rare historical artifact reflecting the final days of World War II and the significance of U-boat operations from bases like Kiel.

Artist-built model to assist with the painting process. Note the family crew photographs

The Story Behind the Print:

Under the command of Erich Topp, U-552 earned its infamous nickname "Roter Teufel" ("Red Devil") due to its remarkable success during World War II. Launched in December 1940, U-552 was an integral part of the German Kriegsmarine’s U-boat fleet, participating in 21 wolfpacks during its service. Over the course of the war, U-552 was credited with sinking or damaging 35 Allied ships, making it one of the most successful submarines in the Atlantic campaign.

U-boat Commander - Erich Topp

U-552 at U-Boat Base Killian in Kiel

By the end of the war, U-552 was one of the few U-boats to survive the intense Atlantic patrols. However, to prevent it from being captured by the advancing Allies, U-552 was scuttled off the coast near the Elbe River on 5 May 1945, marking the end of its storied career.

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Commissioned by Museums, Treasured by Collectors