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THE DA VINCI CODE (2006) - Functional Hero Cryptex and Box

Currency:GBP Category:Memorabilia / Movie - Props Start Price:5,000.00 GBP Estimated At:10,000.00 - 15,000.00 GBP
THE DA VINCI CODE (2006) - Functional Hero Cryptex and Box
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A functional hero cryptex and box from Ron Howard's thriller The Da Vinci Code. Essential to the film's plot, the cryptex required a five-letter code to reveal its contents: a papyrus message wrapped around a vial of vinegar. It was first discovered in a safety deposit box in the Depository Bank of Zurich by Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) and Sophie Neveu (Audrey Tautou). After secretly figuring out that the code was "APPLE" and removing the papyrus, Langdon threw the cryptex into the air, knowing its contents would appear destroyed by the broken vial when it hit the ground, thereby preventing Sir Leigh Teabing (Ian McKellen) from learning the message within.

The cryptex comprises an ornate brass frame with five twisting plastic dials finished in off-white paint and patterns resembling marble. Each dial displays the letters of the alphabet in black. When the word "APPLE" is lined up with the arrows on the device, its right end pops out revealing an inner tube, which shows the paper message wrapped around a clear vial containing a brown liquid.

The pentagonal box is made from rosewood, and is decorated with a removable wooden oval featuring a rose emblem, a metal clasp fastening, and faux-gold metal fleur-de-lis hinges. The reverse of the oval is made of brass and features the clue etched in mirrored writing, rendered in da Vinci's style.

Both items are presented in a larger rectangular wooden presentation box, finished in light-coloured staining, with the same rose emblem adorning the top of the lid. This box was made when the cryptex was gifted to a senior crew member at the end of the production. Minor signs of wear are present on the marble-like finish, some of the dials are easier to twist than others, and there is minor damage to some of the corners on the rosewood box. This lot is delicate and should be handled with care. Dimensions (cryptex): 5 cm x 14 cm x 5 cm (2" x 5 1/2" x 2"); (rosewood box): 7 cm x 16.5 cm x 6 cm (2 3/4" x 6 1/2" x 2 1/2"); (large box): 26 cm x 14 cm x 11 cm (10 1/4" x 5 1/2" x 4 1/4")

Contains mechanical components; see mechanical components notice in the Buyer's Guide.

Estimate: 10,000 - 15,000 M