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A Norris (Charles Hallahan) Spider Head-Thing from John Carpenter's sci-fi horror film The Thing. After R.J. MacReady (Kurt Russell) burned the Norris-Thing, Norris' head detached from the body to survive the fire and transformed into a spider-like monster. The primary mechanical spider-head puppet seen in the film was burned on camera, but a few static props were also made during production.

Designed by special effects makeup artist Rob Bottin, this static version of the Spider Head-Thing was gifted by Bottin to Henry Alvarez, a sculptor who worked on the film, at the time filming wrapped. This piece is very similar to the one seen on the cover of a special double issue of Cinefantastique for "The Incredible Effects of The Thing," though the legs on the Cinefantastique prop had added spikes that were never seen in the film versions.

Originally obtained from the family of Alvarez, the head is made of dense latex and foam based on a sculpture bearing Charles Hallahn's likeness with life-like resin eyes. It features welded metal armatures inside the six spider-like legs; the armatures are covered with latex skins. A replica lace wig with synthetic hair has been added for display. Also included is a copy of the referenced Cinefantastique magazine.

The Thing was not a critical success upon its release, but has been reevaluated over time and is now widely considered a staple title in the horror genre. Rob Bottin's effects work, especially on The Thing, is regularly lauded as an amazing practical effects achievement even by today's standard. Bottin won a Special Achievement Academy Award in 1991 for Total Recall, and later withdrew from the film industry. Original Bottin pieces in the collecting world are both scarce and sought after. This is one of the most significant Rob Bottin effects pieces ever offered at public auction.

The head has had minor restoration and stabilization work done. This lot exhibits discoloration, cracked and fragile latex from age; exposed foam and metal around the head; and lifted adhesive from age. Dimensions: 48" x 36" x 48" (122 cm x 91.5 cm x 122 cm)

Estimate: $100,000 - 200,000



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