Monday, April 28, 2014

Monday eBay Roundup (VIII)

Monday again? :)

Today we have LOTS of new stuff on eBay. Remember I told you last week shed11costumes would be listing more stuff from both Xena and Hercules? Well, here they are, among many other things!

Let's take a look!

- XENA'S INVENTORY ON ORIGINAL SCRIPT PAGES


   > Character: Xena
   Papers: Not mentioned
   Seller: shed11costumehouse
   Price: $100 plus shipping 

   > Opinion: According to the listing, this set includes 5 production script pages with polaroid inventory of Xena shoes. Not the most exciting props in the world, but maybe there are any shoes fetishists around here? lol Jokes apart, this was part of someone's job, and part of our favorite series, so this deserves to be loved as much as anything else!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/181390909166

- XENA'S ARMOR PHOTOS ON SCRIPT PAGES


   > Character: Xena
   Papers: Not mentioned
   Seller: shed11costumehouse
   Price: $100 plus shipping 

   > Opinion: Now, this I like! haha But only because I'm such a Xena's armor nerd! :) Same as before, these are 5 pages of photos, originally used in the production of the series. If nothing else, a good look on each individual armor piece Xena used to wear in her signature costume.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/181390997146

- XENA'S ARMOR PATTERN PIECES


   > Character: Xena
   Papers: Not mentioned
   Seller: shed11costumehouse
   Price: $100 plus shipping 

   > Opinion: Aren't these amazing? I just love stuff like this! These pattern pieces were used to build the stunt safe armor used for action sequences, that were made of a flexible material instead of metal (thus why the word "polyshield" is written on them). However, I'm pretty sure patterns for the regular metal armor were fairly similar, if not identical.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/181391006247

- HERCULES COSTUME INSTRUCTIONS ON SCRIPT PAGES


   > Character: Hercules
   Papers: Not mentioned
   Seller: shed11costumehouse
   Price: $50 plus shipping 

   > Opinion: Now it's turn for Hercules production pieces. These are original script pages from HTLJ, full of swatches and polaroids - together they conform the instructions for making Hercules/Kevin Sorbo's pants, and also include production photos of Hercules gauntlets. I don't know you guys, but I love Hercules main costume, so this may be a fantastic opportunity to get something related to its making for a fairly cheap price.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/181390916560

- AUTOLYCUS COSTUME INSTRUCTIONS ON SCRIPT PAGES


   > Character: Autolycus
   Papers: Not mentioned
   Seller: shed11costumehouse
   Price: $50 plus shipping 

   > Opinion: More costume instructions, this time from everyone's favorite thief: Autolycus. This papers were used by the Production department (of Hercules) to make Auto's pants, and includes other costume making information with swatches and photos. 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/181390957302

- MORRIGAN'S COSTUME INFORMATION ON SCRIPT PAGES


   > Character: Morrigan
   Papers: Not mentioned
   Seller: shed11costumehouse
   Price: $50 plus shipping 

   > Opinion: I admit not being such a HTLJ's fan as I am of Xena. But I remember watching the Eyre/Ireland episodes back in the day, and loving them. Specially Morrigan. I loved that she was a strong female, and an equal to Hercules in many ways. Well, if you loved Morrigan as much as me or more this is your opportunity to get the instructions used to make her costume, as well as swatches and photos of it. 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/181390971379

- IOLAUS AS DAHAK NECKPIECE PATTERN


   > Character: Iolaus as Dahak
   Papers: Not mentioned
   Seller: shed11costumehouse
   Price: $50 plus shipping 

   > Opinion: You all know Dahak, of course. But do you know Xena and Gabrielle were supposed to guest star in HTLJ for the last Dahak episode, to help Hercules and Iolaus defeat him once and for all? The crossover didn't come to fruition due to schedule issues (a shame!) but the saga is not less memorable. This is a very little part of it, but I'm sure someone has the right spot in their collection for this particular costume pattern.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/171309680789

- SCREENUSED BACCHUS GOBLET


   > Character: Gabrielle, Xena, Bacchus in S2 "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun"
   > Material: Resin. Gold paint (worn off).
   Papers: Not clarified
   Seller: manstrale
   Price: $200 plus shipping

   > Opinion: Moving one from Shed11costumehouse, Manstrale also brings us a huge array of Xena props. This, for example, is the blood goblet all Bacchaes drink from to bind themselves to the will of Bacchus. Such an iconic episode! User reminds that this goblet used to be painted with gold paint, but it has faded away over the years, revealing the red resin underneath. I'd say this is a bit expensive, but it seems only one goblet was used for the episode. 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/121328176820

- INDRAJIT SWORD PROPS x2


   > Character: Indrajit in S4 "The Way"
   > Material: Resin.
   Papers: Not clarified
   Seller: manstrale
   Price: $370 plus shipping (each)

   > Opinion: The next items this seller brings us are a couple used by Idrajit, the King of Demons, in one of the episodes of the India arc. I've seen a few swords like this in the past and are very cool - though the level of wear it's always a crucial factor. 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/111337304478
and http://www.ebay.com/itm/121328218706

- PROP KNIFE / DRACO, GABRIELLE


   > Character: Draco. Gabrielle. Others.
   > Material: Resin.
   Papers: Not clarified
   Seller: manstrale
   Price: $270 plus shipping

   > Opinion: This kind of dagger was used hundreds of times during Xena. You can spot one of these in almost every episode, for example handled by Draco in S1 "Sins of the Past", or by Gabrielle to kill romans in S4 "Ides of March". Quite an iconic piece, though a bit expensive if we think of the amount of copies we can find around still nowadays.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/111337329085

- RESIN KNIFE PROP


   > Character: Unknown.
   > Material: Resin.
   Papers: Not clarified
   Seller: manstrale
   Price: $330 plus shipping

   > Opinion: Knife or dagger used by an unknown character in an unknown episode. I do think this is like the previous dagger (a prop used in many episodes throughout the seasons), only less recognizable. If you recognize it or spot it somewhere make sure to tell me!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/121328189346

- TWISTED METAL BRACELET PROP


   > Character: Unknown.
   > Material: Metal.
   Papers: Not clarified
   Seller: manstrale
   Price: $130 plus shipping

   > Opinion: You all know I'm not a big fan of jewelry props, so I don't know what to say about this. Seller doesn't know to whom this belonged, but probably to several characters (props like this were used in many episodes, like the daggers above). Again, I'd say this is expensive if we take into account all the information available. But it's only my opinion ;)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/111337355034

- COBRA METAL BRACELET PROP


   > Character: Unknown.
   > Material: Metal.
   Papers: Not clarified
   Seller: manstrale
   Price: $130 plus shipping

   > Opinion: This I find more interesting. Seller says he doesn't know either where this bracelet comes from, but for the looks of it I'd put my money on the Egypt episodes seen on Xena. Apart from that, same price and unknown metal, so more or less same opinion.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/121328255762

- MARACA PROP x3


   > Character: Unknown.
   > Material: Wood. Beads. 
   Papers: Not clarified
   Seller: manstrale
   Price: $130 plus shipping (each)

   > Opinion: Maracas! lol Manstrale has also listed three maraca music instruments (rumba shakers), used either in Xena or Hercules. I'm not aware of ever seeing maracas in Xena, but anything is possible. There were many episodes music-related, and so many others had people playing music at some point. So who knows!

1 of 3: http://www.ebay.com/itm/111337344058
2 of 3: http://www.ebay.com/itm/121328248897
3 of 3: http://www.ebay.com/itm/111337347181

- METAL GOBLET PROP


   > Character: Unknown.
   > Material: Metal.
   Papers: Includes Turner's COA
   Seller: musiclove
   Price: $49.99 plus shipping (only USA)

   > Opinion: Last but not least, another goblet, this time made of metal (not resin? that is new!). Seller doesn't have much more info about it, but at least this includes a COA.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/261463144587

***

Wow! Definitely no complaints this week, so much stuff! Let's see if next week sellers keep the rhythm!

Stay tuned guys!

Cheers

Sunday, April 27, 2014

Westside Studios Props sale (II)

Hey guys!

I'm preparing the eBay Monday Roundup for tomorrow, and it'll be full of stuff. But in the meantime, I leave you with this video I just found.

It elaborates a bit more the props sale Westside Studios is undertaking (remember we mentioned some time ago here).

Xena and Gabrielle are in the video! :)


Enjoy!

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Reunited at last!

Hello people!

I'm very happy and proud to make this announcement. I've been wanting to share this with you for many days, but shippings and holidays got in the way. Never mind now, today is the day!

My big news is that two very special items are finally in my power: Gabrielle and Xena's katanas. But not just any katanas, no sir. The real deal! Here they are, look at them for yourselves and rejoice!

Both katanas and sheaths side by side.
Close-ups to the blades (left) and the hilts (right).

Gabrielle's katana is the OOAK metal prop used by Renee O'Connor herself in FIN, immediately recognizable thanks to the luscious dragon engravings and blue fabric. Screen-used and screen-matched! As far as the previous owners and I know, only one metal katana was used in FIN, making this item absolutely unique. Priceless! Thanks a lot, Sabrina!

On the other hand, Xena's katana might not be the original prop but it's a 100% screen-accurate "sister" of the one used on the series. Look at the nightingale engravings in the sheath, identical to the ones seen on screen! This katana was made by the same katana masters that built the prop for FIN, making this an exact match to the tiniest detail. Mind-blowing as well!

And they are "reunited" at last, after so many years!

I'll post more photos (of better quality) soon!

Stay tuned!

Monday, April 21, 2014

Monday eBay Roundup (VII)

Hello everyone!

How's your Monday going? Mine is rainy, but full of energy!

At last! I'm so glad we're finally having a Monday Roundup! It's been a long time without proper stuff to review, hasn't it? But today we do have juicy new items for sale, so lets see:

- CREATION ENT YIN YANG CHAKRAM #415


   > Manufacturer: Creation Entertainment
   > Number: 415/500
   > COA: Not mentioned
   > Seller: barniebarrel
   > Price: $189.95 plus shipping

   > Opinion: This is odd. It's not the first time we see #415 around here, I reviewed it some weeks ago (as you can check here). Only now the seller is different, and the aspect of the chakram too! If you compare both photos (the one above these lines and the one in my previous post) you can clearly see all the weathering has disappeared. It surely does look as if someone has repainted the piece again, but hasn't done the rust/dirt effects. Maybe that's why it's selling much cheaper now.

- CREATION ENT ORIGINAL CHAKRAM #381


   > Manufacturer: Creation Entertainment
   > Number: 381/500
   > COA: Included
   > Seller: barniebarrel
   > Price: $595 plus shipping

   > Opinion: Though the listing says this is number 415 as well, I believe it's a typo and the real number is 381. If that's true, then here again we have an old acquaintance of ours. Number 381 was seen the same week than the Y&Y chakram, and it's logical to think that this new seller acquired both at the same time. Again, it's selling much cheaper, though this one looks unaltered. 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/141263140025

- XENA'S SIGNATURE COSTUME FOLDER


   > Character: Xena
   Papers: Not mentioned
   Seller: shed11costumehouse
   Price: $100 plus shipping 

   > Opinion: Shed11costumehouse keeps listing VERY interesting production pieces. This time, a "clear file folder with with assorted costume information" about Xena's iconic main costume. Judging from the pics, I'd say it includes some info on Hercules's costume too. Really interesting.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/171306917601

- XENA'S COSTUME LEATHER FOR ARMBAND


   > Character: Xena
   Papers: Not mentioned
   Seller: shed11costumehouse
   Price: $100 plus shipping 

   > Opinion: This one is what appears to be the remnants of a Xena armband, though the copper is missing and only the leather remains. The piece was complete once, that's for sure, as the negative print of the copper is still visible over the leather's surface. The listing says this armband was donned by a a double named Cindy. Not so interesting as the previous item (at least for me) but I'm sure some people will see it some value as a relic.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/181388357918

- XENA'S COSTUME CORSET PATTERN


   > Character: Xena
   Papers: Not mentioned
   Seller: shed11costumehouse
   Price: $100 plus shipping 

   > Opinion: Who doesn't love costume patterns? These are the 16 cardboard pieces that comprise the corset (meaning S5 or S6 only) of Xena's acrobatic double. Zoe Bell's name is written on several pieces, so I think it's safe to assume this was for her costume. Very cool, as Zoe was fantastic and I think all Xenites love her! A great opportunity for you all, costume makers!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/181388364901

- XENA'S GAUNTLET PATTERN & LEATHER BASE


   > Character: Xena
   Papers: Not mentioned
   Seller: shed11costumehouse
   Price: $100 plus shipping 

   > Opinion: This final item is the one I find most fascinating! This set was supposed to become a gauntlet, but never did. However, it includes all pieces necessary (except for the copper, as far as I can tell). This can be used to make new gauntlets, or to keep as it is, as a nice reminder of the series. Either way, it's a fantastic piece and a good treasure for any collector. 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/171306934003

***

Shed11costumes messaged me today to tell me they'll be adding more Xena pieces as well as some from Hercules during the next few days. I'll keep an eye on them, and keep you all posted!

Have a great day!

Thursday, April 17, 2014

Do you fancy a Lobster violin?

Hello all!

I know the entries are taking a bit longer than expected, my apologies. But trust me when I say the wait will be worth it, because I have incredible news I'm dying to share with you all!

In the meantime, a little appetizer. I just found this article for sale: a Lobster violin prop from S5 "Married with Fishsticks", at the page The Prop Master.


Here's the direct link to the prop:
http://www.thepropmaster.com/?product=xena-warrior-princess

Seller says: "Lobster violin from “Married with Fishsticks,” Season 5, Episode 15 of the 1995-2001 TV series starring Lucy Lawless. Although this underwater extravaganza is considered by some to be the worst Xena episode of all time, the props created by the Pacific Renaissance props team for the misbegotten fantasy were incredible. This violin is no exception. The violin is @25 inches long and 14 inches wide at the widest point. Certificates of Authenticity included."

Price is $425. A bit too much if you ask me, but this a OOAK item after all.

Fancy this rarity? Now you can have it!

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Cool stuff coming soon

Hey friends!

I've been very busy these past weeks doing SO MANY things, and that's been felt a little bit on the blog. But worry not, I've been writing many things, and a lot of cool stuff is coming soon.

A couple of faithful followers have asked me when the last part of the Chakram Comparisons is coming. Soon. Luckily, as soon as next Monday or Tuesday.

And after that, more awesome prop related things that will interest many of you. Want to know what? Then stay tuned, you'll discover soon enough! :)

Have a good Wednesday, you all!

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Heads-up! Production pieces on eBay!

Guys, a quick update!

Shed11costumehouse has just listed on eBay some very interesting items that I think will interest most of you.

They are production pieces that in words of the seller "(…) were brought to us by someone who had them in their archive since the shows finished. They have been authenticated by Jane Holland (Xena's head costume designer during Seasons 5 and 6) - these are her designs".

But let's come to the point. These are the articles in question:

- GABRIELLE'S S5 COSTUME PATTERNS


   Price: 100 € plus shipping

   > More info: (from the listing) Gabrielle pattern - includes an Original Manilla Envelope (A4) with design drawing attached containing a large number of marked and labelled pattern pieces. The Pattern is for a GABRIELLE SIGNATURE CHARACTER COSTUME and holds patterns for RENEE O'CONNOR and DOUBLES. This is a 1-off item that has been archived since the show finished. This item is in production used condition and has not been used in any way since filming. 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/181367583453

- GABRIELLE'S S6 COSTUME PATTERNS


   Price: 100 € plus shipping

   > More info: (from the listing) Same information, but about Gabrielle's red velvet S6 costume instead of S5. It also comes inside an envelope, and hasn't been used since the series finished.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/181367586067

- GABRIELLE'S S6 COSTUME DESIGN NOTEBOOK


   Price: 100 € plus shipping

   > More info: (from the listing) Gabrielle Red velvet Costume Notebook - Original 8B1 notebook with 15 filled pages of notes and some blanks. The Notebook is for the SEASON 6 GABRIELLE SIGNATURE CHARACTER COSTUME and details from costume construction for RENEE O'CONNOR and DOUBLES. This is a 1-off item that has been archived since the show finished. There are 15 pages of construction and detailing notes and include samples of velvet, leather and leather ribbons used for weaving as well as samples of beads used for the skirt. 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/171285978171

- XENA'S COSTUME LEATHER, RINGS AND RIVETS


   Price: 100 € plus shipping

   > More info: (from the listing) The leather is for the bases of the Xena Armour costume. There are 3 large skins of leather 1 heavy, one medium and 1 light weight. There are also brass rings and assorted rivets (studs from the costume). Thise items are in production used condition and have not been used in any way since filming. The labelled box they have been stored in is pictured but not included in the auction. 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/181367603501

***

Overall, they are hugely rare and most interesting items. This kind of production material is very hard to find, but it's incredibly descriptive about the process behind the whole costuming process in Xena Warrior Princess. Four small treasures, that's for sure, and very cheap (for now).

Stay tuned for more Xena news!

Cheers guys!