Mechanical Xenomorph Head Sold for £68k
Any fans of movie props can certainly approve of a major purchase this week, as a authentic Xenomorph Head Sold through the Prop Store. The head was a mechanical prop made for Ridley Scott’s classic sci-fi horror masterpiece Alien, which has since spawned a massive franchise. The original design of the Alien fell upon the shoulders of Swiss artist, H.R. Giger, who’s unique art style lent itself perfectly to the world created by Scott.
The prop sold to one lucky fan for the price of £62,500 ($83,750). A hefty price but with one hell of a prize. This piece had been lost until a few months ago, where it landed in the laps of the folks at the Prop Store.
“The head is largely made of resin and fiberglass, and has a moveable jaw and toothed ‘tongue’ that can protrude from the mouth. The front of the head is shaped like a human skull, as per Giger’s original design, with resin teeth that are plated to look metallic. The back of the head is missing, with cables protruding, revealing where the controls were attached to manipulate the mouth. A headcap is fitted within, allowing the head to be comfortably worn by the Alien performer. The head shows wear from production use and age. The jaw and ‘tongue’ are both mounted on a slide mechanism, with the chrome-plated teeth on the tongue spring-loaded and mechanized”
Sadly, this cool prop never made it’s way on film, as explained by Stephen Lane, the CEO of Prop Store.
“This head was constructed for the production by David Watling, who also previously worked on the mechanical R2-D2 unit on Star Wars… Although Carlo Rambaldi was commissioned to make three mechanical alien heads, he was busy working on another film at the time, so Watling was asked to construct a back-up in case Rambaldi’s were delayed”
This prop was designed to be a backup, just in case. But nether less, it was hand painted by H.R. Giger himself.
“Ultimately, Rambaldi delivered his three heads on time as promised, and Watling’s, though well documented in numerous interviews about it being built for production, was never used on camera”
What an awesome prop.
Would you have been thrilled to the owner of this piece of cinematic history? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! You can also carry on the convo with me personally on Twitter @Lallen_UK
Stay in, Stay Safe, Love Horror!
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