Original mechanical ET model expected to fetch up to £2.6m at auction
The mechatronic for the movie predated CGI and was operated by twelve professional animators.
The original model used in Steven Spielberg’s classic 1982 film ET is expected to fetch up to three million dollars (£2.6 million) when it goes under the hammer in December.
Predating CGI technology, the mechatronic features 85 points of movement and was operated by twelve professional animators.
Regarded as an engineering masterpiece, it was originally created by Italian special effects designer Carlo Rambaldi.
ET The Extra Terrestrial was nominated for nine Academy Awards, winning four including best visual effects, which was awarded to Rambaldi and his team.
It starred Henry Thomas and Drew Barrymore, and featured a score by legendary composer John Williams.
A series of original ET blueprint mechanical illustrations are also estimated at between 10 and 20,000 dollars (£8,600-17,000) each.
Elsewhere, items from the Harry Potter franchise are also expected to fetch hundreds of thousands, including a selection of prop broomsticks belonging to Daniel Radcliffe.
An original Gryffindor wool overcoat and red and yellow Gryffindor scarf designed for Harry Potter is priced at between 20-30,000 dollars (£17-26,000).
A Gryffindor Quidditch team stunt robe from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets may fetch up to 20,000 dollars (£17,000).
The Icons and Idols: Hollywood auction is due to take place live on Saturday, December 17 and Sunday December 18 in Beverly Hills.
