Renault Nr. 3A & Hotchkiss Nr. 12C

Bradley (Brad) Schmehl is an American historical artist from Pennsylvania, where he has resided all his life. He attended the Pennsylvania School of the Arts (now Pennsylvania College of Art and Design). From a young age felt compelled to draw and paint the things that he loved in the world around him. He strives to be a naturalist painter with a realistic style and a remarkable eye for detail. Bradley’s work always tends towards the historical, and he researches the subjects for his paintings through diaries, letters, books and visiting historical sites. His interests range from weaponry and machines, historic architecture, figures, and animals to nature. Schmehl never portrays figures as “types” but seeks to depict unique individuals with a broad palette of human emotions. He endeavours to draw the viewer into his art by means of dramatic composition, his portrayal of light and his use of naturalistic tones and colours. Schmehl’s work is featured in collections across America, including the Booth Western Art Museum, the Delaware State Museum, the Command General Staff College, the U.S. Army War College, as well as the Philadelphia Convention Center. The 1906 French Grand Prix was the first official Grand Prix and was held on 26 - 27 June 1906 at Le Mans. The race was 1.238,16 km and the race was run in two parts, with the cars completing six laps of the 103,18 km course each day. The French Renault AK 90CV with Nr. 3A was driven by the Hungarian Ferenc Szisz (1873 - 1944) and he became the winner of the first Grand Prix motor racing event. The French Hotchkiss with Nr. 12C was driven by the American Elliott Shepard, who later retired from the race after losing a wheel.