The original model used in classic film ET is set to fetch up to $3million (£2.6m) when it goes under the hammer next month. Predating CGI technology, the mechatronic features 85 points of movement and was operated by 12 professional animators.
Regarded as an engineering masterpiece, it was originally created by Italian special effects designer Carlo Rambaldi. The sale of the model is part of the Icons and Idols: Hollywood auction, organised by Julien's Auctions and Turner Classic Movies (TCM) which coincides with the Steven Spielberg film's 40th anniversary year.
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.
Other items from the film which will go up for sale at the auction include the original ET maquette model, made for Spielberg to approve the ET design, and a series of original ET blueprint mechanical illustrations.
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. The Icons and Idols: Hollywood auction is due to take place live in Beverly Hills on December 17 and December 18.
