Did You Know Lex Luthor and Obi-Wan Kenobi Shared a Prop?

The latest “Icons & Legends of Hollywood” auction being held by Profiles in History lists an interesting item that was used in both the original “Star Wars” movie and “Superman: The Movie”.

With both movies filming at Pinewood Studios in London in the late 1970s, many of the same production crew were used on both films. But did you know that a particular prop was used by both Lex Luthor and Obi-Wan Kenobi?

The item in question is a trunk or chest in which Obi-Wan Kenobi stored the Lightsaber he would give to Luke Skywalker. The same chest was used by Lex Luthor to hide the Kryptonite which he’d retrieved from Addis Ababa, and which he would hang around Superman’s neck.

Here’s the listing posted on Profiles in History…

776. Alec Guinness “Obi-Wan ‘Ben’ Kenobi” screen used Lightsaber chest from Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. (TCF, 1977)
Vintage original antique chest constructed of hammered decorative brass applied over wooden box. The 25.5 x 19 x 18.5 in. box features a heavy hinged lid, a swiveling carrying handle at each side and a hoop at the front for a slotted clasp pin. The hammered brass design features bold and exotic geometrical bars, squares and lattice motif throughout, suggestive of Indian or South East Asian patterns and décor. The interior lid is also brass-lined solid wood, while the inch-thick sides and bottom of the chest are ebony stained wood. A chain has been added from chest right side to lid right side to stabilize the lid when open. Highly visible in Star Wars in Obi-Wan Kenobi’s quarters where he stores and retrieves “Anakin Skywalker’s” Lightsaber and presents it to “Luke” (Mark Hamill). Also visible in Superman (1978) in Lex Luthor’s (Gene Hackman) study/lab where he stores Kryptonite. The piece is an actual antique, repurposed and studio distressed for production. Exhibiting some age, wear, and modification to the interior. Instantly identifiable on screen and in vintage very good to fine condition.

With an asking price of between US$60,000 – $80,000, this is one movie prop that will be fought over by hardcore Star Wars and Superman collectors alike.

Thanks to Steve Kirk for the lead on this info.