Behind his golden brightness, there is a story full of curiosities, from the actor who posed naked for his design to the materials with which he is manufactured.
The Awards of the Academy of Arts and Cinematographic Sciences, known as the Oscars, are delivered since May 16, 1929. With the passage of time, the iconic statuette became a prestigious symbol in the film industry. However, behind its golden brightness, there is a story full of curiosities, from the actor who posed naked for design to the materials with which it is manufactured.
Who designed the statuette and its possible model
The statuette was designed in 1930 by Cedric Gibbons, art director of the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. However, one of the most widespread versions argues that the Mexican actor and director Emilio “El Indio” Fernández It was the model for the sketch. It is said that, convinced by his compatriot and star of Hollywood, Dolores del Río, Fernández posed nude to create the iconic figure.
Who baptized the statuette as “Oscar”
The origin of the name does not have a definitive version. Actress Bette Davis said in her biography that she was inspired by her first husband, Oscar Nelson. However, the most accepted story is that Margaret Herrick, a librarian of the Academy, was the one who coined the nickname by noticing the resemblance of the statuette with his uncle Oscar.
In 1934, journalist Sidney Skolsky used the term in his award coverage and, by 1939, the academy officially adopted the name.
What material is the statuette
Although its brilliant appearance suggests that it is solid gold, the statuette is mainly composed of bronze and covered with a 24 carat gold layer. It has an approximate weight of 3.85 kilograms and measures 34.3 centimeters high.
During World War II, metal scarcity forced to manufacture the statuettes with plaster between 1942 and 1945. After the conflict, the winners of those years were able to change their plaster versions for the traditional metal covered in gold.
Where the Oscar Awards are manufactured
Today, the statuettes occur in the Fine Arts Polich Tallix Foundry, located in Hudson Valley, New York. Its manufacturing process is meticulous and can take several months. Approximately 50 statuettes are produced per year and each has a manufacturing cost of around 400 dollars.
An award with history
Since their first installment, the Oscars consolidated themselves as the most prestigious award in world cinema. Over the years, the statuette has witnessed historical and controversial moments, and remains the golden dream of actors, directors and filmmakers around the world.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
