So, I had 2 Mumm-Ra figures with the different/variant sculpt, previously discussed here and I know others have them as well. Now, I recently got my hands on 4 more of these variants and that got me thinking about this figure all over again. And it suddenly hit me; the left leg on these figures is too large. Aside from the more obvious differences like the small eyes, bulging upper arm, lack of detail on the snake symbol etc. the left leg and foot are too large. This results in the loincloth sculpt not lining up, the figure not being able to stand 100% upright. Also the figure cannot get in a sitting pose were both legs are at the same hight.
So, my “theory” is that this Mumm-Ra was produced “first”. I now have 70 Mumm-Ra’s and only 6 of these are variants, so they are a bit more scarce. After a few runs they (LJN) decided the figure should be improved/fxed. I think at that point they changed the size of the leg, which would explain the difference in sculpt and copyright text on the bottom of the feet, and changed/adjusted the minor details (mentioned above). Some pictures (some from the old thread) showing the differences between the variant (left) and the changed version (right)
Wow, this is very interesting. Before reading this I didnt even realize about this alternate sculpt. I will have to take a look at mine (although considering the relative scarcity I doubt I have one). This theory definitely makes sense to me and I will know to be on the lookout for this from now on. Thanks for sharing!
Well, this variant isnt that rare.. if you search for “vintage mumm-ra” on eBay there are plenty being offered.. Maybe they are more common in the States and more scarce in europe?
This may very well be true. I always learn a great deal from your posts. Also, they usually give me another reason to be on the lookout for an old favorite!
The “Master of Variants” astonishes with yet another amazing discovery!
I never knew about these subtle variations. It really is very interesting to learn about these minor differences. Thanks a lot for sharing, buddy. Looking forward to seeing what other discoveries you make.
Thanks for share. I had a look at my mumm-ras with detail and I have two of both sculptures! I never saw the difference other than the skin colour!I’ll make room in my display to show Variation.
I was taking a look at my Playful Mumm-ra the other day and it appears to have some of the characteristics of this variant (less detailed snake, loincloth not matching, writing on foot) but does not necessarily seem to represent all of them. I just wanted to get others take on whether you think Playful used the variant mold (or partially) or if I am just misjudging some of these aspects.
