Universal Studios Hollywood King Kong Encounter Diorama from Early Disney Imagineer Dave Sch...

Description

Universal Studios Hollywood King Kong Encounter Diorama from Early Disney Imagineer Dave Schweninger (1985). Original diorama display constructed from a wood base, resin, foam core, metal, and other mixed media, depicting the King Kong Encounter attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood. The detailed model was created to show Universal executives the scope of the ride's planned path, ascending a ramp on the right side of the cityscape before curving around to a bridge destroyed by King Kong. Features electrical components and cords that remain operational, illuminating various sections of the display when plugged in-including lighted elements and fiber optic cables designed to simulate the oversized gorilla tearing through electrical transformers and wires. The front of the display features 3-yellow buttons that operates the lighting effects. Measures 51" x 51" x 14." Also includes a framed newspaper article from the Los Angeles Times titled, "The King is Back, Long Live the King," dated June 15, 1986, and a studio-lit image of the diorama, matted and framed to a full 25" x 33.5". The diorama originates from Sequoia Creative, the design firm founded by former Disney Parks Imagineer, Quentin David Schweninger, along with Bob Gurr and Tom Reidenbach. The team was commissioned in October 1985 to develop the 30-foot-tall King Kong animatronic figure for the Universal Studios Tour. Kong's eyes no longer illuminate, and the display exhibits handling wear and age with evidence of previous repair and some missing pieces. Includes a metal rod, now broken, that originally operated a wire mechanism used to open and close the sliding door on the side of the building through which Kong "walked" to reach the bridge where he terrorized the tram riders. The Kong figure at the center of the diorama has been refixed to green felt that attaches him to the base. This diorama was built to be activated for very short periods for demonstration purposes. Extreme caution should be exercised as prolonged activation could be dangerous due to heat build-up. Purchaser releases any claims against Heritage for liabilities as it relates to the electronics or use of property's electronical components. Visit HA.com/7433 to view video clips of this diorama when powered. Comes with a COA from Heritage Auctions.

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