In terms of film history, you’d be hard-pressed to find a classic more beloved than Wizard of Oz. Film best known for making Judy Garland Hollywood star, he has the best music, characters and production design. Now one of the key props of the 1939 classic, the hourglass, has been sold at auction for $495,000.
This beautiful piece was sold at Heritage Auctions and has been called “the most famous and recognizable watch in film history.” Any fan of classic cinema will remember that the hourglass plays a key role in some of the film’s most memorable scenes. One of the main scenes took place after the “Wicked Witch of the West”, which was so figuratively played by Margaret Hamilton, grabbed Dorothy and threatened her with an hourglass. In a bit of movie magic, we’d see time for her friends the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion, and the Tin Woodman run out through the hourglass. Many versions of this prop have been made, but the one in question is the hourglass that Hamilton holds above his head to convince Dorothy and her friends not to run away. According to Heritage Auctions, this particular version was made from wood and papier-mâché. They also said that the gothic setting of the hourglass was made by studio craftsmen who included winged gargoyles in the piece. In addition, the glass was hand-blown and filled with red glitter. It’s really amazing just by looking at the images, but knowing that Hamilton’s Wicked Witch touched this piece only adds to its breathtaking cool factor.
Wizard of Oz has so many iconic elements. Brilliant cinematography, impeccable attention to detail and overall quality make the film stand out even in today’s climate. His Technicolor dream is like no other. There are so many iconic moments, performances and props associated with him that he could fill an entire Emerald City with talking points. This is the crown jewel of the huge 100 year old Warner Brothers library. Although the hourglass is not as iconic as the ruby slippers or the yellow brick road, it is such an important part of film history as Wizard of Oz was not the only film to feature this prop. This hourglass was also used in the 1941s. Beauty on Broadway1956 Dianaand 1964 7 faces of Dr. Lao. Once a weapon in the Wicked Witch’s arsenal, this hourglass has lived a full life.
Over the years, more and more horror stories have been uncovered related to the creation Wizard of Oz. This includes the lasting negative health effects on Garland caused by the film. However, props like this hourglass remind us of the best side of filmmaking. The magical side of the craft, which today is becoming a lost art form in many major film releases.
You can find more information about the hourglass sale on the Heritage Auctions website. Wizard of Oz also currently airing on HBO Max. The trailer can be viewed below:
Source: Collider
