ABOUT THE ARTWORK

"Operation Bluecoat" by Artist Craig Tinder

Now available in two exclusive formats: a 30"x20" Hardwood Framed Canvas Edition - Limited to Only 20 and an 18"x12" Canvas (Framed or Unframed) - Limited to Only 30. Each art piece includes an AUTHENTIC RELIC, Certificate of Authenticity, and is hand-signed by the Artist. Quantities are extremely limited—Once They're Sold Out, They're Gone!

This Fine Art Print by Artist Craig Tinder illustrates Shermans of the British 11th Armoured Division gaining the upperhand over units of Germany's 2nd Panzer Division during Operation Bluecoat.

The Story Behind the Print:

The artwork depicting the 11th Armoured Division and their Sherman Fireflies during the Falaise Pocket in August 1944 showcases one of the most critical moments of the Allied breakout in Normandy. During Operation Bluecoat, the 23rd Hussars, part of the 29th Armoured Brigade of the 11th Armoured Division, engaged elements of the 2nd Panzer Division as they pushed through German lines. After successfully capturing a crucial bridge over the River Souleuvre near Bény-Bocage, the 23rd Hussars exploited the surrounding high ground, gaining a tactical advantage against the German forces. Their actions in securing this area were vital to the success of the operation.

The Sherman Firefly, equipped with a powerful 17-pounder gun, played a key role in combating German tanks during this operation. In particular, the Fireflies were instrumental in neutralizing the heavily armored German Panzer units, including the formidable Tiger and Panther tanks. The Fireflies of the 23rd Hussars not only provided fire support but also enabled the division to take and hold key positions during their advance. The relentless push by the 11th Armoured Division was essential in keeping the pressure on the retreating German forces and closing the Falaise Pocket.

After enemy resistance began to dwindle, the 23rd Hussars advanced into the nearby town of La Ferrière-Harang, where they were met not with gunfire, but with jubilant crowds. The local population, overjoyed by their liberation from German occupation, greeted the soldiers of the 23rd Hussars with a spontaneous celebration, marking the transition from fierce combat to liberation. This moment symbolized both the tactical success of the Allies and the emotional impact of freeing towns that had suffered under occupation.

Visit the Journal to read the full story!

 Commissioned by Museums, Treasured by Collectors

This item is handmade by artist, Craig Tinder. Available to ship worldwide!

MATERIAL & DISPLAY

PREMIUM ALUMINUM

Our newest presentation format delivers exceptional color, contrast, and fine detail on a smooth gloss surface. The result has a luminous quality and clarity that is difficult to fully capture in photographs. Framed aluminum editions are finished in a solid black frame for a clean, contemporary presentation.

TRADITIONAL CANVAS

The original Aces In Action presentation features gallery-wrapped canvas, with framed editions presented in our traditional black floater frame. Canvas offers a classic, textured fine-art presentation and remains available on select Relic Artwork editions while inventory lasts.

AVAILABLE SIZES & FORMATS

  • 18" × 12" (45.7 × 30.5 cm) — Premium Aluminum or Canvas; available framed or unframed
  • 30" × 20" (76.2 × 50.8 cm) — Premium Aluminum or Canvas; framed
  • 36" × 12" (91.4 × 30.5 cm) — Panoramic Premium Aluminum or Canvas; framed on select artwork

READY TO HANG

Every Relic Artwork edition arrives ready to hang. Unframed 18" × 12" editions include a rear wall-mount bracket, while framed editions arrive with hanging hardware installed. No additional framing or mounting is required before display.

ABOUT CRAIG TINDER

Craig Tinder is an artist and historical researcher whose work brings significant moments in military and aviation history to life. For more than 20 years, he has combined detailed research with traditional and digital illustration techniques to create historically accurate artwork for collectors, veterans, museums, and historical organizations.

Craig has been commissioned to create artwork, installations, and memorial projects for museums, military organizations, and historical institutions throughout the United States. His work is held in museum and private collections around the world, reflecting a career built around historical accuracy, craftsmanship, and preserving the stories behind the subjects he depicts.

Every Aces In Action artwork is created by Craig Tinder, making Aces In Action the official home of his historical artwork and collectibles.

Meet Craig Tinder →

SHIPPING & CARE

SHIPPING

Each Relic Artwork edition is individually handcrafted and completed by Craig Tinder. From engraving and assembling the Artifact Dock to preparing the relic, framing the artwork when selected, and completing the final inspection and packaging, every piece is finished specifically for its collector. Please allow additional time for this hands-on process before your artwork ships.

Gift wrapping is available for Relic Artwork, making it ready for presentation upon arrival.

DISPLAY & CARE

All Relic Artwork arrives ready to display. Unframed 18" × 12" editions include a rear wall-mount bracket, while framed editions arrive with hanging hardware installed.

Premium Relic Artwork editions are designed for long-term display. Keep artwork away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and extreme temperature changes. Dust gently with a clean, soft, dry cloth and avoid household cleaners or abrasive materials on the artwork, frame, relic, or Artifact Dock.

THE RELIC ARTWORK EXPERIENCE

Authentic History

Each edition incorporates an authentic historical relic, presented on a custom laser-engraved Artifact Dock with details connecting the artifact to its history.

Handmade by Craig Tinder

Every Relic Artwork edition is assembled in Craig's studio, where it is signed, numbered, crafted, inspected, and prepared for its collector.

Made for Collectors

From the Certificate of Authenticity to the finished presentation, each detail is designed to create a collectible that preserves a tangible connection to history.