An original Batman cowl worn by Michael Keaton in Tim Burton's 1989 Batman film recently hit the auction block.
The production-grade cowl was conceived and designed by Bob Ringwood and sculpted specifically to fit the actor. While this specific style of cowl was worn by Keaton's Caped Crusader throughout the film, the item for sale was neither completed by production nor used in filming. The cowl measures 56 cm x 28 cm x 58.5 cm (22" x 11" x 23") and is made of black foam rubber. It also features sculpted-in detailing around the eyes, eyebrows, nose, and chest, as well as Batman's trademark bat "ears" on top.
Ringwood specifically designed the cowl with soft prongs along the bottom edges, so that it could attach seamlessly to the cape with makeup glue and create the illusion the Batsuit was one piece. The cowl comes mounted to a grey fiberglass bust for display and preservation and is in good but fragile overall condition with visible signs of wear and age, including torn rubber around the forehead and brow, and a split down the back.
The cowl is being offered as part of Prop Store's upcoming Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction in London. It is one of several "treasures from film and television" being featured during the first day of the live auction -- which runs Dec. 1 and 2 -- and is expected to fetch £8,000-10,000 ($10,000-$13,000).
Other items featured in the Prop Store auction next month include the Hawaiian shirt worn by Bruce Willis' James Cole in 1995's 12 Monkeys (£2,000-3000), the Dawn of Man Ape Mask featured in 1968's 2001: A Space Odyssey (£2,000-3000) and a CTU badge worn by Kiefer Sutherland's Jack Bauer in television's 24 (£2,000-3000), as well as costumes worn by Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
News of the Batman cowl going for sale comes just weeks after Keaton finally settled the "Best Batman" debate during a virtual interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live! When the host asked Keaton who portrayed the Caped Crusader best, the actor responded, "Me." He also joked about slipping into the Batsuit for an occasional stroll around his neighborhood. Keaton portrayed Bruce Wayne/Batman in both the 1989 film and 1992's Batman Returns.
In other Batman-related news, Swiss design firm Kross Studio recently revealed a stylish 1989 Batmobile Desk Clock, which was inspired by the Batmobile from Burton's film. The clock was produced in a limited edition of 100 numbered pieces and is available for $29,900.
Source: Prop Store