Star Wars Art Sells for $3.875M, Sets New Record

The original painting that served as the first visual introduction to "Star Wars" for many fans has achieved a record-breaking sale of $3.875 million at auction. Created by artist Tom Jung, this acrylic and airbrush piece first appeared in newspaper ads on May 13, 1977, less than two weeks before the film's release. It also graced billboards and magazine advertisements, capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide.

Owned by the film's producer Gary Kurtz, the painting was passed down through his family before being put up for auction. Its sale not only set a new benchmark for "Star Wars" memorabilia but also for any movie poster artwork, surpassing the previous record held by Darth Vader's lightsaber, which sold for $3.6 million. The buyer opted to remain anonymous.

This artwork is considered more than just a piece of film history; it is a cultural artifact resonating with the global fanbase of "Star Wars." The painting depicts key characters and scenes, evolving with the addition of droids like R2-D2 and C-3PO. Its emotional connection to fans underscores its significant value and place in cinematic history.