Ben Hur Screen-Used Mechanical Ship Movie Prop

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Ben Hur Screen-Used Mechanical Ship Movie Prop

About the Item

Ben Hur Screen-Used Miniature Ship. (MGM, 1925/1959) A spectacular articulated ship model from the sea battle scenes in both MGM versions of Ben-Hur. This vessel originally constructed for the 1925 Fred Niblo version at great studio expense, repurposed for the 1959 remake. The ships are highly visible on the ocean’s horizon leading up to the big sea battle and in the spectacular battle itself. “Judah Ben-Hur” (Charlton Heston) is a slave rower on a Roman ship when his fleet encounters Macedonian pirates. A violent confrontation ensues in which ships engage in all out battle. The events of this battle help further shape Ben-Hur’s destiny. At over 90 years old, this beautifully detailed model is impressive even in its current screen used condition. Master model makers have fashioned these vessels from a variety of materials including copper, aluminum, steel and wood. The ship features a unique ramming beak. The Hand hammered copper hulls have oxidized over the years and the masts Look to have been remade some time ago. The wooden decks are no longer present, though the ship still retain auto- mated mechanisms installed to operate ship’s oars.... All have been restored and in fine working condition. The chain-drive geared mechanism that allows all 66 wooden oars to realistically row. There are even some miniature sailor figures still present aboard the ship. Remnants of paint and ornaments remain as well. On the front and back ends under the water line there are loops to attach cables that would move the ship during filming. In addition there is a trap door on the hull with a spring mechanism. When wanted this was to let water into the hull to sink the ship. Here is an incredible opportunity to acquire one of Hollywood’s finest miniature craft from one of history’s most enduring stories and film- making’s most epic achievements.

Attributed to:
MGM Studios (Designer)
Dimensions:
Height: 50 in (127 cm)Width: 75 in (190.5 cm)Length: 50 in (127 cm)
Style:
Industrial (In the Style Of)
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
Early 20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
1920s
Condition:
Seller Location:
Peekskill, NY
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU88389271253