15th Dec, 2022 9:00
The December Fine Art, Antiques & Jewellery Auction
A partial suit of film prop Roman armour in beaten metal and hide. Comprising breastplate and back and skirt, reputedly produced for the 1925 Metro Goldwyn Mayer (silent) film "Ben Hur" and purchased from the MGM auction in May 1970 and then sold to our late client. The next "Roman" themed film to be made was "Quo Vardis" in 1951 and "Ben Hur" in 1959. Presumably, the armour had been in the ownership of MGM until 1970 it is likely to have been used in all three movies. Together with a fabric-covered circular shield.
From the estate of the late John Fabb who was involved in the film industry but was also a collector of film props and paraphernalia.
Sold for £380
Condition Report
No helmet sandals or sword
A partial suit of film prop Roman armour in beaten metal and hide. Comprising breastplate and back and skirt, reputedly produced for the 1925 Metro Goldwyn Mayer (silent) film "Ben Hur" and purchased from the MGM auction in May 1970 and then sold to our late client. The next "Roman" themed film to be made was "Quo Vardis" in 1951 and "Ben Hur" in 1959. Presumably, the armour had been in the ownership of MGM until 1970 it is likely to have been used in all three movies. Together with a fabric-covered circular shield.
ProvenanceFrom the estate of the late John Fabb who was involved in the film industry but was also a collector of film props and paraphernalia.
