Acclaimed filmmaker Guillermo del Toro is set to auction a selection of his prized collectibles, providing fans and collectors an opportunity to acquire unique items from his extensive collection. The auction, organized by Heritage Auctions, will commence on September 26, 2023, and features a variety of artifacts that reflect del Toro’s passion for horror and fantasy.
Del Toro, known for his Oscar-winning films such as The Shape of Water and Pan’s Labyrinth, has amassed an impressive range of art, props, and memorabilia over the decades. His collection is housed in a dedicated space called Bleak House, which showcases his love for monsters and the macabre. In a recent press release from Heritage Auctions, del Toro emphasized the importance of sharing his collection, particularly in light of the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. He stated, “I believe that collecting is not owning. Collecting is protecting, a sacred duty, being a keeper of a flame, an acolyte.”
The decision to auction pieces from his collection stems from a desire to responsibly curate and share these treasures with a wider audience. Del Toro articulated a commitment to preserving cultural artifacts for future generations, reflecting on the vastness of his collection and the responsibility that comes with it.
As fans eagerly anticipate the auction, a diverse array of items highlights the intersection of art and film. Here are some notable pieces that will be available:
Highlighted Auction Items
The auction features items with starting bids that reflect their significance and rarity. Among the standout pieces is a Bernie Wrightson illustration plate from Frankenstein, with a starting bid of $200,000. This original artwork, created for the adaptation of Mary Shelley’s novel, showcases Wrightson’s distinctive style.
Another remarkable item is the hero shotgun used by Ron Perlman in Hellboy II: The Golden Army, which has a starting bid of $50,000. Additionally, collectors will find the screen-used escape pod from Pacific Rim, with a starting bid of $10,000.
The auction also features conceptual artwork, such as a full-body maquette for the Amphibian Man from The Shape of Water, starting at $3,000. Notable original art pieces include a splash page from Hellboy: Seed of Destruction, priced at $26,000, and a final album cover painting by Bernie Wrightson for Meat Loaf, starting at $80,000.
Other items include an early concept sketch of a vampire from Cronos, listed at $4,000, and original illustration art from Pan’s Labyrinth, starting at $3,000. A painting by H.R. Giger, titled “The Tourist,” is also included, with a starting bid of $150,000.
How to Participate
Fans and collectors can explore the full inventory and details on how to bid by visiting the Heritage Auctions website. As the auction date approaches, del Toro’s curated selection offers a unique glimpse into the creative world that has captivated audiences worldwide. While the prices may be steep, the opportunity to own a piece of cinematic history is an enticing prospect for many.
This auction not only serves as a chance to acquire rare collectibles but also underscores del Toro’s dedication to preserving the cultural significance of his collection. As he shares these cherished items, fans are invited to participate in safeguarding the legacy of horror and fantasy for future generations.
