As frequent readers know, I have published a number of articles in search of information about the original prop masks made for and worn by Anthony Hopkins in The Silence of the Lambs, Hannibal, and Red Dragon films as well as analysis of those purported to be, and other related issues (see Market Watch | Hannibal Lecter Masks). [Read more…]
I published a few Market Watch articles in 2007 and 2008 focused on the sale of Hannibal Lecter masks, specifically from the film, Hannibal. This feature updates the state of the marketplace for these pieces with an archive of proof that exact replicas cast from an original source exist in the marketplace, making it very challenging for the authentication of any original masks. [Read more…]
Over a year ago, I published an article about a Hannibal Lecter mask described by the seller as “a SCREEN USED PROP – actually Worn / Used in the Film“. This was listed on eBay for $14,000.00 and differed in a variety of ways from the mask seen on screen in the movie, Hannibal. This mask offered for sale had very specific and noticeable damage to it and included a Star Wares COA. It appears that this mask has resurfaced on eBay, now offered by Star Wares (starwarescollectibles) starting at $4,999.99. If the same piece, it appears that the mask has suffered considerable damage since the May 2007 auction. [Read more…]
There has been some great news coverage of interest to original prop collectors, prompted by the upcoming release of the new Indiana Jones film.
There is a nice feature in today’s Seattle Times, focused on David Morgan, the man who was responsible for making the iconic bull whips for the first three Indiana Jones films, as well as the upcoming fourth installment, “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull”. [Read more…]
As noted in recent articles, there are many Star Trek “Original Series” (1966-1969) era prop replicas that have been traded in the marketplace as authentic, fooling experts, dealers, and auction houses, as well as collectors.
As a result, there are profound challenges in authenticating the iconic, high value props from this classic television series, especially the Tricorder, Communicator, and Phaser. The current ’state of the marketplace’ poses a significant potential risk for Star Trek collectors who could inadvertently buy an inauthentic piece.
The most productive manner in which collectors can help other collectors to mitigate this risk is by talking to one another, sharing information, and spreading awareness of the ’state of the marketplace’ for these types of props and underscoring the importance of formal and thorough authentication.
I thought it would be productive to catalog and archive information relevant to these props. [Read more…]