The Russian Five: A Revolution in Hockeytown Limited Edition Signed Lithograph - No. 33 of 3,000

The Russian Five: A Revolution in Hockeytown

Limited Edition Lithograph - No. 33 of 3,000

This hand-signed lithograph commemorates the most influential five-man unit in Detroit Red Wings history. Comprising Sergei Fedorov, Igor Larionov, Vyacheslav Kozlov Viacheslav Fetisov, and Vladimir Konstantinov, the "Russian Five" combined Soviet-style puck possession with North American grit to end Detroit's 42-year championship drought.

Historical Significance:

• The Blueprint: Formed by legendary coach Scotty Bowman in 1995, this unit revolutionized the NHL, leading the Red Wings to a record-breaking 62-win season in 1995-96 and back-to-back Stanley Cup titles in 1997 and 1998

A Tragic Legacy: This piece is particularly significant as it features the original hand-signed autograph of Vladimir Konstantinov. These signatures were collected before the June 1997 limousine accident that tragically ended his playing career just six days after the team's first Stanley Cup victory.

Cultural Impact: The unit's arrival signaled a new era of international talent in the NHL, moving beyond Cold War-era tensions to create a "Hockeytown" dynasty.

Collector’s Note:

This specific piece is No. 33 of a strictly limited edition of 3,000 commissioned by The Sports Gallery, Inc. and created by artist Paul Madden. As one of the first 100 prints pulled from the original edition, it is highly prized for its low numbering and the pristine quality of its authentic signatures.

The Lithograph measures approximately 24x36. This is a professionally framed piece.