“Prop Store Collection” Superman Costume, Fabric Discussion Continued, Part 2
April 9, 2008 by Jason DeBord
This is part of the ongoing series of articles about costumes in the marketplace attributed to use by Christopher Reeve in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s (see “Questions About Superman Costumes in the Marketplace: Authenticity, Sources, Quantity“).
The Prop Store of London, which recently sold an original Superman costume with a Certificate of Authenticity from Warner Bros. (see “Authentic Superman Costume In The Marketplace – The Prop Store of London“), has recently showcased a complete costume on their website (currently on display at the Movieum of London – see related article).
Of particular interest is the section discussing the manufacture of the “radical, brand new, specially formulated fabric” on the “single, now defunct weaving machine in Germany”. As shown in prior articles, “Original Superman Costume Reference Archive: Fabric Comparison“ and ““Prop Store Collection” Superman Costume, Fabric Discussion Continued“, samples of fabric (“Original Fabric Sample”) that is claimed to have been the same kind used to produce the original costumes for the films is very unique and distinct in weave, color, weight, and other attributes, and differs significantly from standard/modern spandex:
There were also striking differences between the “original” material and the material used to make the “Superman III Reference Costume” sent to me by another collector for examination (see “High Resolution Photo Reference Archive: “Original Superman III Christopher Reeve Costume”“). The ”Original Fabric Sample” is top, the “Superman III Reference Costume” fabric is bottom:
The costumes with Warner Bros. paperwork sold by ScreenUsed (see “Superman III Body Suit“) and The Prop Store of London (see “Superman III Body Suit“) both appear to be made of material that resembles the “Original Fabric Sample” type shown in the photos above and other examples in the previous articles.
Update: High Resolution Photos of the “Prop Store Collection” Superman on Display at the Movieum
Another collector visited the Movieum in recent days, and sent me photos of the “Prop Store Collection” Superman costume on display.
High Resolution Archive: “Prop Store Collection” Movieum Display
High Resolution Archive: “Prop Store Collection” Movieum Display Upper Torso
High Resolution Archive: “Prop Store Collection” Movieum Display Chest
High Resolution Archive: “Prop Store Collection” Movieum Display Description
Description Text:
The suit worn by Christopher Reeve in his legendary portrayal of the first superhero DC comic’s SUperman.
This costume was designed by Yvonne Blake and made by MBA Costumiers for the original Superman movie in 1978 and elements of it were then subsequently reused on Superman II (1980) and Superman III (1983). The face of Reeve seen here was life cast by Stuart Freeborn in 1977 and represents the most accurate image of the late actor possible. One of the most famous costumes in cinema history.
High Resolution Archive: “Prop Store Collection” Movieum Display Shorts, Waist
Below is a comparison of the “Original Fabric Sample” and a close-up of the “Prop Store Collection” costume photo above:
High Resolution Archive: Comparison – “Prop Store Collection” vs. “Original” Fabric Sample
Here again is the comparison between the “Original Fabric Sample” and the “Superman III Reference Costume” sent to me by another collector which was sold to him as an authentic costume worn by Christopher Reeve:
The ”Original Fabric Sample” is top, the “Superman III Reference Costume” fabric is bottom:
Here is a comparison between the “Prop Store Collection” costume and the “Superman III Reference Costume”:
High Resolution Archive: “Prop Store Collection” Superman Chest Emblem Comparison
High Resolution Archive: “Prop Store Collection” Superman Chest Emblem Detail Comparison
Jason De Bord
Additional Related Articles: Market Watch | Superman
any pics of the cape emblem? Also Jase, where is it said that this costume has a COA from WB as stated on one of the pics?
djohns
Having personally seen the Propstore Superman costume at The Movieum in London recently, I can tell you without any doubt whatsoever that it’s the real deal. Just look at the comparisons with the highly questionable “Superman 3 Reference Costume” and you will see that the Propstore costume is 100% authentic.
Interestingly, there is no cape emblem present on the cape on this costume. I’m curious to hear why it wasn’t included but it could be a number of reasons – stunt cape, Only seen from the front (so deemed unecessary to add the emblem to the cape if it would not be seen) etc, etc.
Chris
Oh without a doubt it is authentic, my request was merely to confirm Mr. Lane had indeed told you the costume was from the WB archives.
Very interesting comment Chris, about the cape having no emblem, I suppose Stephen is the only who could answer your question. I thought all capes made had an emblem, even stunt ones.
Cheers,
Dan.