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INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE (1989) - Photo-Matched Tank Model Miniature Side Panel

Currency:GBP Category:Memorabilia / Movie - Props Start Price:5,000.00 GBP Estimated At:10,000.00 - 15,000.00 GBP
INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE (1989) - Photo-Matched Tank Model Miniature Side Panel
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A photo-matched side panel from the oversize model miniature tank from Steven Spielberg's adventure sequel Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. In the iconic desert chase sequence, Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) rescued his father, Henry (Sean Connery), and Marcus Brody (Denholm Elliott) from a fictional tank lent to SS officer Ernst Vogel's (Michael Byrne) by the Sultan of Hatay (Alexei Sayle), ultimately sending the tank crashing down a cliffside in a memorable sequence. The sequence is one of the film's most memorable, with Indy and his father both involved in the action inside and outside of the tank.

While full-scale functional tank props were designed (based on real world Mark VII tanks, with adjustments) and built for the film, a remote control model miniature matching the 28-tonne full-size vehicles was also constructed specifically for shots where the tank goes over the edge of the cliff. Known by the production as "Babe", the build of the miniature tank was supervised at Elstree Studios by mechanical effects supervisor George Gibbs, who incorporated his own lawnmower engine into the build. The model was over two meters long and built in metal so it could withstand special action shots such as the cliff drop. The tank's side panels were also made to be removable so the production team could access the interior components. The model was shot on location at Rambla de las Salinas in Valencia, Spain and then shipped to ILM in California to be used for bluescreen work. The bulky tank model was subsequently sent to a scrapyard, where this right side section was recovered by a staff member who recognized it and has held the piece ever since. The rest of the model was scrapped at the time.

This two-part section is constructed of welded steel with a removable top turret piece and a long breaker bar on bottom affixed with three green canvas supply bags, two ammunition boxes labeled "120/DAT", and two engine hatches labeled "YALNIZ SU" in white print. Loose metal wiring is attached along the edges where the section was previously to a bottom piece to allow easy access to an internal battery and motor. A hole underneath the cannon allows for a manoeuvring rod to be inserted. The piece matches exactly, based on paintwork and detailing, to behind-the-scenes photos of the tank model being prepared for the drop shots.

This lot exhibits visible signs of age and use, with extensive rusting and white discolouration throughout the metal, chipped paint on the breaker, fraying canvas, repainted portions of the turret, and some broken or missing rivets, but it remains in good overall condition. Dimensions: 187 cm x 48.25 cm x 30.5 (74" x 19" x 12")

Special shipping required; see notice in the Buyer's Guide.

Estimate: 10,000 - 15,000 US