Doyle Auctioneers are offering a Darth Vader promotional touring costume, commissioned by Lucasfilm and made by N.J. Farmer Associates in the UK for the promotion of The Empire Strikes Back and later Return of the Jedi, up for auction on November 14th.
An N.J. Farmer Darth Vader Touring Costume. A Darth Vader promotional touring costume, circa 1980 or shortly thereafter, commissioned by Lucasfilm and made by N.J. Farmer Associates in the United Kingdom for the promotion of The Empire Strikes Back and later Return of the Jedi. This full costume, which stands roughly at an imposing 7 feet when assembled on the provided form, includes mostly original labeled components as described below.
The costume comprises the two-piece mask and helmet (both marked within in silver ink “RS 21”), chest and shoulder armor, chest control box, belt with attached components, cape (with N.J. Farmer label), shirt (with N.J. Farmer label), pants (with N.J. Farmer label), a pair of greaves (both marked within in silver ink “RS 22”), leather codpiece, a pair of gloves and boots (both possibly added later). Accompanied by a tall mannequin. Worn areas from use, one shoulder guard detached.
A rare example of an N.J. Farmer touring Darth Vader costume, one of the most iconic costumes in film history. In all three Star Wars films, Darth Vader was physically played by David Prowse and legendarily voiced by James Earl Jones. In preparing the promotion of Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back, Lucasfilm commissioned Nick Farmer of N.J. Farmer Associates in the U.K. to create several full-size Darth Vader costumes to be worn in a tour of movie theaters. These costumes continued to be used throughout the promotion of The Return of the Jedi. The costume stands at an imposing seven feet and makes quite an impression. Please contact department for additional images.
Take the link below to register your interest in this auction and to find out more — happy hunting!
