'Stars and Stripes' is a lithograph created by Alexander Calder as part of a project for Braniff International Airways, which included painted aircraft and a very limited portfolio of six lithographs titled 'Flying Colours'. Using crisp forms and vibrant primary colours, Calder distills patriotic imagery into an abstract, playful composition that unmistakably evokes the U.S. flag. Beyond its national references, the floating stars and cloud-like bands recall the open sky, aligning with Calder’s lifelong fascination with aviation, movement, and spatial rhythm. The work translates the kinetic vitality of his mobiles into a static medium, offering a compelling example of his ability to animate line and color with buoyant energy.