LOT #98006 |
Buy Now: $43,750.00
Star Wars R2-D2 Card Back Original Packaging Artwork (Kenner, 1978-81)....
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We are accepting offers until 8:00 AM CT Wednesday, December 18, 2024 on this item that didn't sell in the recent
2024 December 4 Action Figures & Toys Platinum Star Wars Signature® Auction.
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Description
Star Wars R2-D2 Card Back Original Packaging Artwork (Kenner, 1978-81). The R2-D2 character is arguably Star Wars' most famous droid, and a key component of many of the entire franchise' finest moments. Some 48 years on, R2-D2 might even rival the anthropomorphic Mickey Mouse as the Disney's most recognizable icon. Kenner's first R2-D2 action figure is also arguably responsible for a large slice of the character's fame.R2-D2 was one of the first four action figures released by Kenner in 1977 via the Early Bird promotion, and his image is one of the most published and enduring from packaging artwork for the entire vintage Kenner Star Wars toy line. The R2-D2 artwork offered here is from the back of Star Wars action figure blister cards, which showed previews of the other figures available from the line and provided millions of children the opportunity to dream of the next addition to their growing collection. Whether they favored heroic Rebels, wanted to build an army of Stormtroopers, or desired to fill out their universe with creatures and droids, this card back art and the other works like it gave fuel to their imaginations.
This artwork was used by Kenner to create the small, individual character rectangle for R2-D2 which can be seen on the back of all Star Wars 20 and 21 back packages, along with The Empire Strikes Back 21, 31, 32, and 41 back releases. It is (along with the 11 other first series figures pictured beside it), the most published piece of artwork from the entire Kenner line.
The art graced action figure and die-cast vehicle blister card backs as well as the Star Wars retailer and consumer mini catalogs that were packaged with vehicles and playsets. In America alone, it appeared on of 35 different action card variations during the height of Star Wars' early fame in 1978 continuing up to the summer of 1981. The artwork was also seen on the back of packages made by Palitoy (UK 1978/79), Toltoys (Australia 1978/79), Poch (Spain 1981), Harbert (Italy 1978), Kenner Canada (Canada 1978-81) and others.
It was created using the photo art (mixed media) process, a common practice during the 1970s and 80s pre-Photoshop era of graphic design. There are obvious brushwork elements on R2's dome, legs and torso, along with an airbrushed background terrain. There is also shading that's visible along the right-hand edge of the character. The R2-D2 artwork was re-touched by hand with airbrushing and brushwork that is initially obvious only at this original, larger scale.
The original print that is the basis for this image features a prototype, silk-screened example of the action figure that was assembled and painted by hand inside of Kenner. Measuring 10.25 by 8.25 inches, the large image shows R2-D2 seemingly floating over green-brown background fabric. The lighting and retouching gives the figure image a metallic sheen worthy of the legendary intergalactic astromech.
The artwork comes in the frame as pictured. The frame is included as-is and should not be considered as part of the value of the piece.
This artwork comes with a Certificate of Authenticity by Collectible Investment Brokerage (CIB) which has been authenticated and signed by Tom Derby.
Auction Info
2024 December 4 Action Figures & Toys Platinum Star Wars Signature® Auction #7396 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
December
4th
Wednesday
Post-Auction Buys Period Ends
10 Days
5h 14m
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