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Ben-Hur Original Naval Battle Schematic Drawing.

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:200.00 USD Estimated At:300.00 - 500.00 USD
Ben-Hur Original Naval Battle Schematic Drawing.
All items are sold as is. Contact Van Eaton Galleries for condition reports and shipping information. 21% Buyer's Premium for all lots.
(MGM, 1959) A large original schematic drawing for the iconic "Ramming Speed" scene in the Oscar-winning epic, Ben-Hur. Accomplished in pencil on MGM's Art Department vellum stock, the drawing depicts a bird's eye view of the moment when the pirate galley rams the Roman galley. Hand-titled "'Spar Deck Plan' Ramming Sequence Showing Approx. Depth of Penetration," the drawing was executed by "Donald" (likely Academy Award-winning visual effects artist R.A. MacDonald) for art director Edward Carfagno. There are numerous hand-annotations throughout the diagram as well as the stamp "1724-51." Ben-Hur represented a staggering achievement in both special and miniature effects, virtually sweeping the technical categories at the 1960 Oscars. Along with the climactic chariot race, the "Ramming Speed" scene ranks among the most suspenseful and memorable elements of the film. Measuring 29.5"x41.25", the schematic is in good condition, being irregularly folded and exhibiting minor separation at fold junctures. There are several creases throughout, top left corner loss, small edge tears, and staining in the blank area at bottom center from production use.