Ferrari 365BB LeMans 1978, by Jim Bisignano
$3,500.00
Most Ferrari enthusiasts are familiar with the famous 512BB, and 512BB LM, but before these racers became dominant, their forerunner, the 365BB was carving up tracks all over Europe and the U.S.
The subject of Jim Bisignano's lovely watercolor is Serial # 18139, depicted here competing at LeMans in 1978. The car was originally purchased by Luigi Chinetti in 1974, then heavily modified for racing. It was actually the very first Ferrari BB (Berlinetta Boxer) racing car, and it was the very last racer built by Chinetti.
After moderate success, Chinetti sold the car to Howard O'Flynn, whose name appears on the rear quarter panels in the painting. In 1977, O'Flynn took the car to LeMans, finishing fifth in class, and 16th overall. The next year, #18139 raced at Daytona, then travelled back to LeMans. The team drivers, Lucien Guitteny and Francois Migault brought the car home third in class and 16th overall.
Bisignano's painting underscores the beauty of the car's lines, and his use of broad brushstrokes imparts the impression of speed. The painting measures 34 1/2 x 17 1/2 inches, and is attractively secured with a black frame, measuring 42 1/2 x 25 1/2 inches. Archival overmatting surrounds the painting, protecting it from possible acidic damage.
