Houses of Wax

Hollywood Wax Museum- Terminator 2

2011-06-07T21:33:00.000-07:00

After a long break from the blog, here's a quick post from the Hollywood Wax Museum. This shot shows former California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in a scene from Terminator 2: Judgement Day. Because he played the same character in this series of movies, some entertainment wax museums used the same figure and just changed the title of the movie to make their figures seem more relevant.

Another view of the figure which shows more of its leather outfit.

I plan to start posting again since the hectic schedule I've had the past few months has somewhat gone back to normal.

Musée Grévin- Madame Laetitia entouree de sa famille

2011-02-25T21:33:00.000-08:00

Here's a photo from the Musée Grévin in Paris. The scene is entitled Madame Laetitia entouree de sa famille, which shows Laetitia Bonaparte with her family. Her son Napoleon stands behind her, as well as her other children. She lived to be 85 years old, and died in 1836.

A closer view of some of the family.

Visit the Musée Grévin website here.

Stars Hall of Fame Wax Museum- Sunset Boulevard

2011-02-20T09:33:00.000-08:00

This shot from the Stars Hall of Fame Wax Museum in shows a scene from the 1950 film Sunset Boulevard. The film stars Gloria Swanson, Williams Holden and Erich von Stroheim. The film noir has been praised as on of the top films in motion picture history by the American Film Institute.

A closer view of the three stars. Many of the sets at the Stars Hall of Fame were identical to their counterparts at Movieland, and this tableaux seems to be no exception. I sometimes wonder if they used some of the same photos for both attractions. If so, the subtle differences in sets were be lost.

Madame Tussaud's D.C. Celebrates 2/17 Launch of US Presidents Gallery

2011-02-15T21:33:00.000-08:00

Heralding their arrival in Washington D.C., wax figures of all 44 U.S. Presidents were gathered at Union Station by Madame Tussauds Washington D.C. to celebrate the launch of its U.S. Presidents Gallery – which debuts at the attraction on Thursday, February 17, 2011. With the opening of the $2 million-plus Gallery, Madame Tussauds D.C. will be the only place in the world where people can see and interact with all 44 U.S. Presidents. (Photo Credit: Jim Sulley/Newscast for Madame Tussauds D.C.)

Madame Tussaud's- Severiano Ballesteros

2011-02-08T08:33:00.000-08:00

Here's a vintage image of Spanish professional golf Severiano Ballesteros. He won fifty events on the European tour which is the most all time. Ballesteros golfed professionally from 1974 until his retirement in 2007. He also won the Master's twice; 1980 and 1983.

A close up up the quite dramatically posed figure.

Visit the Severiano Ballesteros website here.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's London website here.

Movieland Wax Museum- Donny and Marie

2011-02-05T14:33:00.000-08:00

The brother and sister duo of Donny and Marie Osmond are seen here at the Movieland Wax Museum. The pair hosted their own variety show from 1976-1979 and have been in the entertainment spotlight off and on ever since. This scene represents their 1998 talk show of the same name.

Here is Donny Osmond with his arms crossed.

Marie Osmond holding one of her dolls. Osmond has had a doll making business since 1991.

A close up on the doll, Adora Belle. Even the Disney parks have sold Marie's line of dolls.

A clapboard sign of their show.

One more view of the two figures. They were sold together at the Movieland auction for $1,700. Exact copies of these two figures are still available to view at the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf. Both museums had the same owner and most figures from the 1990s and 2000s had duplicates.

Potter's Wax Museum- Queen Isabella I of Castile

2011-01-31T20:33:00.000-08:00

(1451-1504)

This photo shows the wax figure of Queen Isabella I of Castile. Known as the financier of Columbus, Queen Isabella helped unify Spain. Her investment in the voyage of Columbus brought Spain out of bankruptcy and back into prominence in Europe.

A close up of the queen. It was also during her reign that the Spanish Inquisition began.

Visit the Potter's Wax Museum's website here.

Denver Wax Museum- Richard Nixon

2011-01-22T13:33:00.000-08:00

(1913-1994)

Here's a shot from the Denver Wax Museum of President Richard Nixon. The figure is fairly accurate, and doesn't look as generic as some lower quality presidential wax figures. If you want to see many of the figures from this defunct museum, make sure you visit the Forney Museum of Transportation in Denver Colorado.

Country Music Wax Museum- Rod Brasfield

2011-01-11T18:33:00.000-08:00

(1910-1958)

This photo shows Grand Ole Opry comedic legend Rod Brasfield. Although he died young, 48 years old, Brasfield made a huge impression on the country music scene by being the main comedian at the Opry. He partnered with Minnie Pearl, and they both shared the spotlight. He died in 1958 due to heart failure.

Tussaud's London Wax Museum- Founding Fathers

2011-01-08T19:33:00.000-08:00

Standing at this table in the Tussaud's London Wax Museum are three wax figures of our nation's founding fathers. From left to right are; John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin. The London Wax Museum had an eclectic array of figures, but the majority were historical. This was one of the more modest sets.

A close up of the John Adams figure. Nice detail in the face.

Thomas Jefferson, another great design.

A close up of Benjamin Franklin.

King of Kings Wax Museum- The Annunciation

2010-12-24T09:33:00.000-08:00

The Angel Gabriel came unto her and said, "Fear not Mary, Thou has found favor with God. Thou shalt bring forth a son, and call his name Jesus."

This image is from the King of Kings Wax Museum at Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg Florida. The museum opened around 1968 and closed in the 1990's. Fortunately, the figures were saved, restored, and moved to the Museum of Religious Arts in Logan Iowa.

A close up of Mary as she receives the news that she was chosen to give birth to the Christ child.

A close up of the Angel Gabriel.

View more information on the Museum of Religious Arts here.

Merry Christmas from Houses of Wax!

MADAME TUSSAUDS WASHINGTON D.C. ANNOUNCES ITS $2 MILLION-PLUS U.S. PRESIDENTS GALLERY TO OPEN ON FEBRUARY 17, 2011

2010-12-20T18:33:00.000-08:00

Madame Tussauds U.S. Presidents Gallery will be the Only Place in the World Where People Can See and Interact with All 44 U.S. Presidents

[Washington D.C., December 20, 2010] – The ultimate three-dimensional tribute to America and its commanders-in-chief is one step closer to being a reality for the Washington D.C. area, as Madame Tussauds Washington D.C. today announced that its new $2 million-plus U.S. Presidents Gallery—which will house wax figures of all 44 U.S. presidents—opens its doors to the public on Thursday, February 17—just in time for Presidents Day. The launch of the Gallery will make Madame Tussauds D.C. the only place in the world where people can see and interact with all 44 U.S. presidents.

“We are looking forward to providing the public with the unique opportunity to experience all of the U.S. presidents in a way unlike ever before,” said Dan Rogoski, General Manager of Madame Tussauds Washington D.C. “As the only place in the world where people will be able to meet and interact with all 44 U.S. presidents, history buffs, students and the general public alike will enjoy a truly unique and enriching educational experience at the Gallery.”

Since the Gallery was announced last February, Madame Tussauds studio artists have been working tirelessly to create entirely new wax figures of 28 U.S. presidents. In anticipation of the opening of the Presidents Gallery, figures of presidents have been popping up across the country. Throughout the year, figure sightings have included: President Gerald Ford at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum for the 97th anniversary of his birthday; founding fathers George Washington and Thomas Jefferson at the Independence Visitor Center in Philadelphia over the July 4th holiday; and most recently, Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln, which took a road trip to Mount Rushmore in honor of the 69th anniversary of the monument’s completion. A lighthearted video of the trip can be viewed at Madame Tussauds Washington D.C.’s Facebook and YouTube pages; and a photo of the figures at the monument with their stone visages in the background can be viewed and downloaded at newscast.

A tremendous undertaking, each figure takes about three to four months to complete and requires an extensive amount of work. In order to make the figures as lifelike as possible, Madame Tussauds artists have to study hundreds of photographs, and when available, hours of video footage. Of course in some cases, the artists did not have the luxury of photographs or videos, and needed to rely on historical accounts, even paintings.

The U.S. Presidents Gallery will serve as a rich educational resource and include a curriculum focused on the history of the U.S. presidents. The new curriculum will fully complement the attraction’s existing and free comprehensive Educational Curriculum Guide, which was developed in accordance with the U.S. Department of National Social Studies Standards and National Council for the Social Civil Rights Movement Studies Standards. The guide was designed to empower educators with the tools they need to deliver exciting lessons in areas such as history, political science, social studies and media – before and after visiting the attraction.

About Madame Tussauds Washington D.C.

Movieland Wax Museum- The Thin Man

2010-11-30T20:33:00.000-08:00

This shot from the 1934 movie, The Thin Man, shows William Powell and Myrna Loy in an amusing, yet slightly morbid scene. Powell plays Nick Charles, a retired detective and Loy is Nora, his wife.

Here's another view without the flash.

A close up Powell. Although he looks it, he actually is not the thin man.

A close up of the smiling Myrna Loy figure.

This small version of Asta the dog was once an animatronic figure. You can see how the arms are made to swing.

The clapboard sign, showing information on the film.

The William Powell figure sold for an impressive $3,000. The Myrna Loy figure sold for $700, and the set sold for $500. That included Asta the dog and a male extra figure that was lying on the couch. I'm not sure how detailed that figure was.

Tags: Movieland Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax The Thin Man

Potter's Wax Museum- John Cabot

2010-11-15T12:33:00.000-08:00

(c. 1450 – c. 1499)

Here is Italian explorer Giovanni Caboto from Potter's Wax Museum. Caboto sailed for England in the fifteenth Century, where he is known as John Cabot. He sailed a northern route to the new world, reaching Greenland and Newfoundland. His voyages helped give England a claim to North America.

A close up of the figure.

Visit the Potter's Wax Museum's website here.

Tags: Potter's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax John Cabot

Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf- Willie Mays

2010-11-12T18:33:00.000-08:00

The San Francisco Giants recently won the World Series and the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf did their part to celebrate the title. Many of the figures throughout the museum had Giants baseball caps on. Here we see legendary baseball player and San Francisco Giants center fielder Willie Mays sitting in the rotating carousel of figures in the museum's Lobby time Chamber. The figure is quite old, and has for years been shown in this sitting pose.

A closer view with newspaper articles in the background. Mays played for the Giants (Both New York and San Francisco) from 1951-1972.

A close up of the "Say Hey Kid".

Visit the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf website here.

Tags: San Francisco Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Willie Mays

Madame Tussauds D.C. Offering Free Admission To Veterans

2010-11-08T21:33:00.000-08:00

ARMY VETERAN AND MRS. AMERICA 2010 1ST RUNNER-UP RAQUEL RILEY THOMAS TO MEET, GREET AND TAKE PHOTOS WITH VISITORS AT MADAME TUSSAUDS WASHINGTON D.C. IN CELEBRATION OF VETERANS DAY

Veterans Go Free, $5 Off for Family and Friends as well as Other Special Discounts and Giveaways

In celebration of the brave men and women in the U.S. armed forces, past and present, former U.S. Army Ordnance Captain, current Mrs. Maryland America and 1st Runner-Up in the 2010 Mrs. America pageant, Raquel Riley Thomas, will sign autographs, take pictures and greet visitors in celebration of Veterans Day at Madame Tussauds Washington D.C., on Thursday, November 11, from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., 1001 F Street, NW (at F and 10th Streets). For the entire day admission will be free for all veterans and members of the U.S. military (valid veteran/military ID required), and friends and family members will receive $5 off admission.

Saluting visitors and passersby from a new 10th Street window display will be a wax figure of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who issued the first Veterans Day proclamation in 1954. Additionally, the very first veteran to arrive at the attraction on Veterans Day will receive a special Madame Tussauds D.C. photo album; the first ten veterans will receive a special Madame Tussauds book bag; and all guests will receive a yellow pin in honor of the nation’s veterans. The attraction will also offer an exciting scavenger hunt, where winners will receive a 25 percent discount off items in the gift shop. Festive Foods Catering will also provide refreshments for guests to enjoy throughout the day.

“Madame Tussauds is pleased to honor and provide the brave men and women of the U.S. armed forces with a day of fun and enjoyment that they can share with their families,” said Madame Tussauds D.C. General Manager Dan Rogoski. “With the help of Raquel Riley Thomas, the variety of special discounts and activities we are offering, as well as the interactive experiences our figures provide, veterans will have a lot to be happy about on this special day.”

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet and interact with wax figures of some of the nation’s most well-known historical icons, many of whom served in the military, including: George Washington, Robert E. Lee, Theodore Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy.

From presidents and first ladies to political icons and civil rights leaders to pop stars and sports heroes, Madame Tussauds D.C.—the premier wax attraction—offers guests the chance to get up close and personal, take their picture with, hug and even kiss wax likenesses of President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, actress, singer and teen sensation Selena Gomez, the Jonas Brothers, Tyra Banks, Penelope Cruz, Rihanna and many more.

Madame Tussauds Washington D.C. is a fully interactive, full-sensory experience, where visitors are able to touch, see and hear major historical events and celebrities in a way unlike any other Washington D.C. attraction. Recent additions to the attraction include actress, singer and teen sensation Selena Gomez; nine U.S. presidents which will be included in the under-construction U.S. Presidents Gallery opening in February 2011; music megastars and teen sensation, the Jonas Brothers; superstars Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Rihanna, Penelope Cruz and Tyra Banks; as well as President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. The attraction is located within walking distance of the National Mall and the White House. The entrance is on the corner of F and 10th Streets, NW. The attraction is metro-accessible by the Red, Blue, and Orange lines at Metro Center or the Yellow, Green, and Red lines at Gallery Place/Chinatown. Hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Sunday through Friday; and 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. on Saturdays. For more information, visit www.madametussaudsdc.com or call 202-942-7300 or 888-WAX-IN-DC.

Madame Tussaud's- Guy Fawkes Repost

2010-11-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

(1570-1606)

This picture from Madame Tussaud's in London shows Guy Fawkes attempting to blow up the English Parliament building in order to restore Roman Catholic rule in England. The barrels are full of gunpowder, which would have created a devastating explosion. However, Fawkes was apprehended before his plot was completed. Although the plan was not fully executed, Fawkes was, but not before he became a legend in England.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's London website here.

Tags: Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Guy Fawkes

Madame Tussauds- Mount Rushmore

2010-11-01T21:33:00.000-07:00

Presidential wax figures from Madame Tussauds Washington D.C.’s forthcoming U.S. Presidents Gallery – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln – are posed with their stone visages as part of a road trip from the nation’s capital to Mt. Rushmore, in recognition of the anniversary of the monument’s completion—October 31, 1941. The U.S. Presidents Gallery will debut at Madame Tussauds D.C. in February 2011. (Photo Credit: Jim Sulley/Newscast)

George Washington.

Thomas Jefferson.

Theodore Roosevelt.

Abraham Lincoln.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's website here.

Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf- Tree Torture

2010-10-27T19:33:00.000-07:00

This poor tree torture victim at the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf hangs upside down at the museum's chamber of horrors section. Although this is one of the less gory scenes, it is still fairly disturbing based on the body language of the figure. The victim screams pain without saying a word.

This is how the figure looks as you pass by the dark chamber. I assume this is the tree torture scene, as this is the only one that seems to match that description from the museum's guide.

Visit the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf website here.

Paris Spectacular Wax Museum- Salome and the Head of St. John the Baptist

2010-10-20T12:33:00.000-07:00

This scene is inspired by the painting by Moreau. Princess Salome was the daughter of Herod Philippus, and the niece of Herod Antipas. At the instigation of her mother, Herodias, Salome obtained the head of Saint John the Baptist, from her uncle.

Here we see John the Baptists severed head served on a silver platter.

A close up of the quite revealing figure of Salome as she admires the head.

Tags: Paris Spectacular Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Salome

Hollywood Wax Museum- beetlejuice

2010-10-16T12:33:00.000-07:00

Don't say his name three times or else you'll have the most annoying resident of the afterlife hounding you forever. here we see Michael Keaton as Beetlejuice. With his trademark black and white striped suit, the figure stands behind its own gravestone.

With the flash on, we can see the detail in the figure. What a disgusting character.

Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum's website here.

Tags: Hollywood Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Beetlejuice

American Heritage Wax Museum- Indian Wars

2010-10-13T12:33:00.000-07:00

In this amazingly graphic scene from the American Heritage Wax Museum in Scottsdale Arizona we see an Indian warrior attacking a settler as his horrified daughter watches in terror. The Indian is scalping the man for what the museum calls revenge for his intrusion into the Indian's territory.

A close up of the gruesome scene. The look on the scalped man is disturbing, as well as the anger in the native's face.

The daughter, crouched in the corner in fear, can do nothing but watch as her family is murdered.

Tags: American Heritage Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Scalping

Disneyland- Haunted Mansion Mummy

2010-10-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

This is a clay model of the mummy with teacup animatronic from the Haunted Mansion attraction at Disneyland. Several years ago, Disney had a display showing prototypes, and concept artwork from the ride. Even at this small scale, we can see the detail that went into the actual figure.

Tags: Disneyland Halloween Haunted Mansion

Movieland Wax Museum- Phantom of the Opera

2010-10-07T12:33:00.000-07:00

Lon Chaney and Mary Philbin starred together in the 1925 horror film Phantom of the Opera. In this tableau from the Movieland Wax Museum we see the iconic reveal scene. Philbin is Christine Daae who has pulled the phantom's mask off and he is not too pleased with it. It is a very dark scene, as it belongs to the museum's "Chamber of Horrors" section.

With the flash on, we can see more detail in both the figures and the set.

Christine doesn't look too scared. in fact, she looks rather amused. It's another example of the difficulty in creating expression on wax figures.

The Phantom does looks angry. His disfigured face adds to the ominous mood of the entire tableau.

The clapboard sign and wax facts information on the movie, and on Lon Chaney.

The figures were not sold at the movieland auction. Instead, they moved to the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco. An alternate phantom figure did sell at the auction for $4,000, which was very high for a figure that was not from Movieland. The organ and props sold for $1,250.

BONUS: Watch this movie here. (Courtesy of Archive.org)

Tags: Movieland Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Lon Chaney

Hollywood Wax Museum Gatlinburg- Texas Chain saw massacre

2010-10-04T12:33:00.000-07:00

This photo shows one of the terrifying figures in the Chamber of Horror section of the Hollywood Wax Museum in Gatlinburg Tennessee. Leatherface is one of the cannibalistic family members in the movie Texas Chain saw massacre. He's also the most well know, as his chain saw creates fear in the minds of those who imagine the damage that weapon causes to human flesh.

The human skin face mask is one creepy accessory.

A closer view of the figure. Leatherface and Michael Myers are the two masked killers I find the most disturbing.

A close up of the tableau information sign.

Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum Gatlinburg's website here.

Tags: Hollywood Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Leatherface

Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf- The Tortured Captive

2010-10-01T12:33:00.000-07:00

What happens when you have a wax figure that you no longer want? Do you melt it down? Auction it off? No, you reuse it in a tableau that probably has nothing to do with the figure's original purpose and theme. Here we see what once was a wax reproduction of Michelangelo's sculpture, The Captive, reused as a torture victim in the Chamber of Horrors at the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf. The poor figure now has branding marks, and dripping blood on its body. At least the figure matches the scene this time. Though it's unfortunate that they had to mark up and modify the wax body.

A closer view of the figure. Michelangelo did a great job showing the torment and pain in the body language of the captive.

The blindfolding of the victim adds another level of depth to the agony. The poor man is unable to stop the branding iron from searing his body.

Visit the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf website here.

Palace of Living Art- The Captive

2010-09-28T12:33:00.000-07:00

Michelangelo's statue, The Captive (A.K.A The Dying Captive, The Prisoner), is seen here in the Palace of Living Art. Located at the Movieland Wax Museum, the Palace had wax representations of famous paintings and sculptures. This figure represents the human model for the sculpture.

A closer view of the figure shows its detail. Notice the shackle on the left arm.

When Movieland Wax Museum closed its doors in 2005, they sold many items that once belonged to the Palace of Living Art. Here is the marble statue that was also at the palace. There was often both a wax figure, and a reproduction of the original piece of art in the Palace.

This image was used in promotional material for the museum. I'm not sure if it was a photograph of the original or of their reproduction.

The marble reproduction of the captive statue sold at the Movieland auction for $850. The wax figure isn't part of the Palace of Living Art in San Francisco. However, that's not to say the figure isn't on display somewhere at the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf. Next time we'll take a look at that figure, and what kind of tableau it could belong to.

Tags: Palace of Living Art Wax Museum The Captive

Potter's Wax Museum- Christopher Columbus

2010-09-25T15:33:00.000-07:00

(1451-1506)

This image from the Potter's Wax Museum in Florida shows Italian explorer Christopher Columbus. After attempting to acquire financing from Portugal and England for his trip to Asia, Columbus eventually found funding through Spain. Instead of Asia, Columbus and his ships found the Bahamas. This lead the way to further explorations in what is now the North and South American continents.

A close up of the wax figure.

Visit the Potter's Wax Museum's website here.

Tags: Potter's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Christopher Columbus

News- Gwen Stefani at Madame Tussauds

2010-09-22T21:33:00.000-07:00

The Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum in Las Vegas unveiled their new Gwen Stefani wax figure today. The pop star was on hand for the big reveal, and as you can see the figure doesn't exactly look like the singer. It seems that the figure is based on an older version of the Gwen Sefani look. The real person is a lot more tan than the figure.

The figure stands alone. It looks like they created a whole body mold for this one.

Miss Gwen admires her wax abs.

The differences are striking when the two are next to each other.

A closer look at the figure.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's website here.

Tags: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Gwen Stefani

(All photos property of Madame Tussauds)

News- Royal London Wax Museum Closes

2010-09-19T10:33:00.000-07:00

Sad news coming out of British Columbia as today marks the end of one of North America's great wax museums. The Royal London Wax Museum will close its doors for good as an unfortunate lease dispute has ended the relationship the museum has had with the owners of the historic Canadian Pacific Steamship terminal building. Due to seismic upgrades needed on the building, the museum had to vacate the premises, but the expense of temporarily moving and then rebuilding the tableaux proved too costly. They also were unable to secure a long term lease in the building, even if they could have found the money to rebuild. The museum owners looked for other suitable locations, but they could not find any.

The figures will move into storage, and hopefully a solution will be found. However, the future does not look bright that the Royal London Wax Museum will ever reopen.

Visit the Royal London Wax Museum website while it is still up here.

Tags: Royal London Wax Museum

Spirit of Monterey Wax Museum- Gaspar de Portola and Spanish Rule

2010-09-16T20:33:00.000-07:00

This scene from the Spirit of Monterey Wax Museum shows Gaspar de Portola, the governor of Baja California as he moved north to establish Spanish rule in Alta California. Here, he stands in front of Spanish soldiers. Northern California was crucial to the Spanish empire in preventing Russia from southern expansion from Alaska.

A close up of the Gaspar de Portola figure.

A wide view of the scene. Like many historical wax museums, Spirit of Monterey uses narration and lights to tell a story. Guests follow each scene as it lights up and then dims. This doesn't allow much for stragglers, as people need to keep up with the tour.

Tags: John Steinbeck Wax Museum Figure Cannery Row Monterey Gaspar de Portolao

Movieland Wax Museum- Marie Antoinette

2010-09-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

This is Norma Shearer, famed Hollywood actress, as Marie Antoinette in the 1938 movie of the same name. In this tableau we see the detail of the figure's dress and the reflection of the previous scene, Blood and Sand.

This is the same shot, only with the flash on. Although the detail is the same, without the lighting the scene lacks the dramatic effect.

A close up of the figure.

The clapboard sign detailing the cost and weight of the dress.

The set and Props sold at the Movieland auction for $2,300, while the Norma Shearer figure sold for $1,800.

Tags: Movieland Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Marie Antoinette Norma Shearer

National Wax Museum of Lancaster County Heritage- William Penn Receives His Land Grant From King Charles II

2010-09-08T20:33:00.002-07:00

This scene from the defunct National Presidential Wax Museum shows William Penn receiving the land grant from King Charles II in 1681.

In this photo we see Williams Penn holding the grant when the previous, vintage photo had King Charles holding the paper. I suppose that during the nearly forty years of the museum's existence Mr. Penn finally got a hold of it.

A clergyman I guess. Penn's namesake state had the greatest religious freedom of any territory.

King Charles II. He gave Penn the land grant just a few years before his death.

A guard stands by.

A larger view of the tableaux. Not counting the wall, the set is pretty small.

A sign off to the side gives information on the scene.

The entire scene sold at the auction for $1,750

All photos (except the first) are from Jennings Auction Group.

Tags: Discover Lancaster Lancaster County Wax Museum Wax Figure

Knott's Berry Farm- Upstairs at Goldie's Place

2010-09-05T16:33:00.000-07:00

Here we see the upstairs residents of Goldie's Place at Knott's Berry Farm. This one seems to have her hand bound, but I think that it is just to keep her arm up. A bit risque for a family theme park, Goldie's Place does add a bit of authenticity to the Ghost Town area of the park.

The second of the two upstairs figures hides elusively behind the window. These two figures are best viewed at night when the interior lights come on.

As you can see, the figures are barely visible in the daylight hours. Unfortunately, the Goldie's Place sign is obstructed by the Wreath as this photo was taken during Christmas time.

One last detail. This is the kicking leg that is on the side of this Board and Batten building. Along the alley is the pathway to Sad Eye Joe's jail cell.

Visit the Knott's Berry Farm website here.

Tags: Knott's Berry Farm Wax Figure Ghost Town Goldie's Place

News- Rhianna Invades Madame Tussaud's

2010-09-02T15:33:00.000-07:00

Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum in Washington D.C. unveiled a new wax figure of pop singer Rhianna this past week. Here we see the figure before it was revealed in the museum. It is kind of a strange pose, but not unrealistic.

A close up of the figure. You can see the detail work on the face, and in the wardrobe.

And the unveiling in the museum. The umbrellas are a nice touch to personalize the exhibit. (For all of you out there who aren't familiar with the singer, Umbrella is the name of one of Rhianna's songs. I had no idea.)

A close up of the figure's face.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's website here.

Tags: Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Rhianna

Knott's Berry Farm- Goldie's Place

2010-08-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

Knott's Berry Farm is famous for their peek-in ghost Town scenes. Here we see Goldie's Place, Knott's very own house of ill repute. The building has recently been torn down for a major remodel, and is scheduled to be rebuilt. These photographs show the place before the demolition.

The ladies of the night. This picture was taken after dark, when the building's interior lights were on. Though the detail is not quite as good on these figures as some of the other buildings, the mannequins do offer an idealized view of these women.

A close up of one of the figures with its red feather boa.

This is the most prominent figure. Could this be Goldie?

The front door of Goldie's Place. They won't do much business with that huge lock preventing people from entering.

Goldie's Place

A house for 'ladies of the night' was a permanent fixture in most mining towns, so our Ghost Town would not be complete without this building. Goldie has the only parlor in town and it is decorated in shades of her favorite color, red.

Goldie's Place was built in 1940, and is copied after an old building standing in Bodie before much of that town was burned out.

Visit the Knott's Berry Farm website here.

Tags: Knott's Berry Farm Wax Figure Ghost Town Goldie's Place

Walt Disney World- Olaf II

2010-08-27T08:33:00.000-07:00

This figure of Olaf II in the Norway pavilion at EPCOT Center sits on its throne as king and patron Saint of Norway. Olaf II unified Norway and was influential in the conversion of the country from paganism to Christianity. He is honored here at Walt Disney World as Saint Olaf II.

Another view of the figure with flash on to show more detail of the sculpt and of the wardrobe.

A close up of Olaf II. The figure seems contemplative and distinguished.

A sign detailing the life and history of the King.

Another sign explaining the history of the Vikings, and their accomplishments.

A short video of the figure.

Visit the Walt Disney World website here.

Tags: Disney World Olaf II Wax Figure Vikings Norway

National Civil War Wax Museum- The Industrial North

2010-08-24T08:33:00.000-07:00

With the textile industry an important part of the Northern economy before the Civil War, the mostly family owned mills needed high tariffs to avoid competition from foreign goods. However, the South wanted low tariffs to to help the export of their major crop, cotton. Here we see one of those Northern family businesses making clothing in a small shop.

A woman ironing the newly woven fabric.

A man and a woman working with a sewing machine.

perhaps this is father inspecting some new fabric.

Visit the American Civil War Museum's website here.

Tags: National Civil War Wax Museum Gettysburg

Madame Tussauds Vegas- Arnold Schwarzenegger

2010-08-21T08:33:00.000-07:00

At the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum in Las Vegas, standing beside Sylvester Stallone, is California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. The two action stars Share the screen in the new movie The Expendables. Muscles are very difficult to sculpt on wax figures, but this one seems to be done well. Having them hidden under the shirt helps also.

Although the context of the figure is that he is at a large social gathering, it is slightly odd that Mr. Schwarzenegger is in this pose. Is he flexing his muscles? Is he angry?

Another view of the figure, just a bit closer.

What a great job they did on the figure's face. Nice detail, and it really looks like him. I've seen some poor versions of Arnold Schwarzenegger, but this one's excellent.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's website here.

Tags: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Arnold Schwarzenegger

Stars Over Gatlinburg Wax Museum- Fred and Ginger

2010-08-18T08:33:00.000-07:00

Here's another photo from Houses of Wax reader Purplepeanut from the Stars Over Gatlinburg Wax Museum in Tennessee. These figures of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers (misspelled "Rodgers" on the sign) were in the same room with figures of Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh in Gone With the Wind.

A closer view of the two figures. They did a great job on the sculpts for such a small wax museum.

A close up on the clap board sign with the misspelled name. Thanks again Purplepeanut for these great vintage photos!

Tags: Stars Over Gatlinburg Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Fred Astaire Ginger Rogers

Hall of Presidents Wax Museum- Mad Hatter's Tea Party

2010-08-15T08:33:00.000-07:00

Although primarily an American History museum,the Hall of Presidents Wax Museum in Colorado Springs also had a Fairyland section. They included these tableaux after the Chester A. Arthur exhibit which displayed the twenty-first President as "The Storyteller", reading Alice in Wonderland to his daughter Nell. Here we see The Mad Hatter's Tea Party featuring The Mad Hatter, the March hare, and The Dormouse.

The March Hare, enjoying tea.

The Mad Hatter, who is stuck forever at 6:00.

The Dormouse, who is always drifting in and out of sleep.

Tags: Hall of Presidents Wax Museum Colorado

Hollywood Wax Museum- Hugh Jackman

2010-08-12T19:33:00.000-07:00

Hugh Jackman, Australian actor turned Hollywood heart throb, is represented here in the Hollywood Wax Museum as a wax figure standing near the red carpet in the museum's Hollywood premiere section. Although he is known as a family man and all around nice guy, Jackman appears to be upset at the museum guests as he is flippin' the bird to everyone who passes by!

Another view of Mr. Jackman.

And one more time with the offending appendages just out of view.

Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum website here.

Tags: Hollywood Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Hugh Jackman

News- Jane Lynch at Madame Tussaud's

2010-08-07T22:33:00.000-07:00

Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum in Hollywood unveiled their new Jane Lynch figure this week. Lynch, a Hollywood veteran, has become quite popular for her recent role in the fox television show Glee.

The figure dressed as the character Sue Sylvester.

The figure and Ms. Lynch.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's website here.

Tags: Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Jane Lynch

Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf- Nelson Mandela

2010-08-01T19:33:00.000-07:00

Located in the Humanitarian section of the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf is this figure of former South African President, Nelson Mandela (Born 1918). Mandela served 27 years in prison before being released and subsequently elected president in 1994.

A slightly blurry close up of the figure.

View more information on Mandela here.

Visit the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf website here.

Tags: San Francisco Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Nelson Mandela

Guinness World Records Museum- The Shortest Woman

2010-07-27T21:33:00.000-07:00

Tucked away in a small corner of the Guinness World Records Museum is a small figure of the shortest woman ever recorded by the Guinness World Records organization. Pauline Musters was born in the Netherlands in 1876 and died in New York City in 1895.

A closer view of the figure. The material used for most of the Guinness World Records Museum figures seems to be some sort of fiberglass or other synthetic material, but it's not too far from the feel of many newer figures at museums like Madame Tussaud's.

The figure in front of pictures of the real Pauline Musters and the World's Tallest Man.

Tags: Guinness World Records Wax Figure Wax Pauline Musters

Movieland Wax Museum- Blood and Sand

2010-07-21T17:33:00.001-07:00

This tableau from the Movieland Wax Museum shows Tyrone Power (1914-1958) as Juan Gallardo, a great Matador who finds the fame and fortune from bullfighting overwhelming.

A close up of the figure. This was one of the simpler sets in the museum. The lone figure stands in front of a small mural, and the only prop is the sand on the ground.

Another angle with flash. Power died at the age of 44 of a heart attack while filming the motion picture Solomon and Sheba.

A close up of the clap board sign.

Tags: Movieland Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Blood and Sand Tyrone Power

Musée Grévin- Bonaparte and Josephine

2010-07-17T18:33:00.000-07:00

Bonaparte et Josephine Pendant une soiree a la Malmaison.

This photograph shows Napoleon and Josephine during a party at the famed Chateau Malmasion. This is a very posed shot, and we can see the two in the center of the tableaux, while the other guests are off to each side.

Napoleon and Josephine Bonapart. The female figure is lounging on the seat while Napoleon is standing in his most famous pose.

These three young maidens are standing together outside, and are quite involved with the bird that one has in her hand. The large mural represents the french countryside.

Visit the Musée Grévin website here.

Tags: Grevin Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Bonaparte

Royal London Wax Museum- Goldie Hawn

2010-07-12T12:33:00.000-07:00

This wax figure of actress Goldie Hawn is from the long gone Royal London Wax Museum in Phoenix Arizona. Captured in this photograph is her trademarked smile. And notice those large blue eyes. One of several wax museums with the same name, the RLWM featured Josephine Tussaud's seven magic worlds:

1. The World of the Old West
2. The Carousel of Stars
3. The World of the Mighty
4. The World of Royalty
5. The World of Religion
6. The World of Horror
7. Fantasyland (The happiest world of all)

As you can tell, Ms. Hawn is located on the Carousel of Stars. The lights in the background give away the world where she belongs.

Many of the historical figures were acquired from the old American Heritage Wax Museum in Scottsdale, finding a new home here. After this museum closed the building was converted to the Party Gardens teen dance club, and the carousel remained sans figures. The location now seems to be a small office building.

Turn of the Century Wax Museum- Advertisement

2010-07-05T11:33:00.000-07:00

Here we see an old advertisement for the Turn of the Century Wax Museum once located at the Old Towne Mall in Torrance California. The museum fit perfectly into the old time nostalgic feeling of Old Towne. With seventy figures in 35 tableaux, the museum celebrated the long gone era of the early twentieth century. From movies, to music, to American history, Turn of the Century Wax Museum had something for everybody.

Tags: Turn of the Century Wax Museum

News- Kim Kardashian Figure at Madame Tussauds

2010-07-03T15:33:00.000-07:00

This week, Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum in New York City unveiled their newest wax figure of reality show star Kim Kardashian. Ms. Kardashian was on hand to pose beside the figure and must have been so embarrassed that they were wearing the same outfit.

A close up on the figure. Some people have knocked this figure for not looking like the actual person, but I think they did a decent job.

Another shot of the two. It must have been uncomfortable to stay in that awkward pose for so long.

A close up on the real person for a comparison of the two.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's website here.

Tags: Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Kim Kardashian

Canadian Wax Gallery- Exterior

2010-06-28T21:33:00.000-07:00

120 Banff Ave, Banff, Alberta, Canada

The Canadian Wax Gallery was located in the historic Cascade Dance Hall in Banff Alberta, Canada. The building dates from 1921, and was converted to the wax museum in 1963. The building is still standing, but the wax museum has long left its halls.

As you can see, the museum displays the most famous name in wax museum history.

The sign of the Canadian Wax Gallery. The museum focused on the history of Canada, as well as the United States and general world history. I don't have the year the museum closed, but it lasted at least through the late 1970s and perhaps into the 1980s. Now restaurants and shops share the facility in what seems like a very busy street.

Tags: Canadian Wax Gallery Wax Museum Wax Figure

Madame Tussauds D.C.- East Coast Meets West Coast

2010-06-19T16:33:00.000-07:00

MUSIC ICONS TUPAC SHAKUR AND NOTORIOUS B.I.G.’S WAX FIGURES UNVEILED AT MADAME TUSSAUDS WASHINGTON D.C.

Tupac Shakur and Biggie Smalls (aka Notorious B.I.G.) have re-united for the first time – in wax – on Tupac’s birthday. The figures are on loan from Madame Tussauds New York for three months. During that time, fans will have the opportunity to take photos and get up close and personal with the incredibly lifelike figures.

Biggie’s figure was created from extensive research. Studio artists studied hundreds of photos and hours of video footage to create Biggie’s wax likeness, which dons a white three-piece suit, white hat and white shoes. The figure, which is standing with one hand in its pocket and the other hand resting on a gold and wood cane, garnered approval and praise from Biggie’s mother, Ms. Voletta Wallace, who has seen her son’s figure.

Tupac and Biggie are widely recognized as two of the greatest hip hop artists and rappers of all time. Their influence on and absence from the hip hop community can still be felt today – more than a decade after their tragic deaths. At Madame Tussauds Washington D.C., their figures will be displayed together for the first time in the attraction’s Glamour Room.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's D.C. website here.

Tags: Madame Tussauds Washington DC Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax

Madame Tussauds Vegas- Sylvester Stallone

2010-06-07T11:33:00.000-07:00

Here's the wax figure of world famous action star Sylvester Stallone. Not displayed as Rocky or Rambo, instead Madame Tussaud's has dressed him in a suit. This fits in with their Hollywood party theme of this section of the museum.

A close up of the figure. Stallone sure looks good for his age.

Another shot from the side.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's website here.

Tags: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Sylvester Stallone

Palace of Living Art- Leonardo da Vinci and the Mona Lisa

2010-06-01T08:33:00.000-07:00

Here's a shot from the Palace of Living Art showing Leonardo da Vinci painting the Mona Lisa. We see him with his model Lisa del Giocondo, and with the painting. Da Vinci spend many years working on the painting and it his become arguably his most famous work.

The figure of da Vinci. NOTE: The painting is a reproduction, and not the original.

Lisa del Giocondo posing for the painting.

A close up of the figure. Not exactly like the original, but a good likeness.

Visit the Palace of Living Art in San Fransisco here.

Tags: Palace of Living Art Wax Museum Mona Lisa

Madame Tussauds D.C to Offer Free Admission to Veterans

2010-05-28T17:33:00.000-07:00

ALL U.S. VETERANS AND MEMBERS OF THE MILITARY TO RECEIVE FREE ADMISSION TO MADAME TUSSAUDS WASHINGTON D.C. DURING MEMORIAL DAY HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Visitors Encouraged to Show their Patriotic Colors with 25 Percent Discount for Anyone Wearing Red, White & Blue

In celebration of the brave men and women in the U.S. armed forces, past and present, Madame Tussauds Washington D.C. is offering free admission to all veterans and members of the U.S. military (valid veteran/military ID required) over the Memorial Day holiday weekend, from Friday, May 28 through Monday, May 31 at Madame Tussauds D.C., 1001 F Street, NW (at corner of F and 10th Streets).

Additionally, Madame Tussauds D.C. is encouraging visitors to let their patriotism shine through by offering a 25 percent admission discount to anyone wearing red, white and blue. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet and interact with wax figures of some of the nation’s most well-known historical icons, many of whom served in the military, including: George Washington, Robert E. Lee, Teddy Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy.

From presidents and first ladies to political icons and civil rights leaders to pop stars and sports heroes, Madame Tussauds D.C.—the premier wax attraction—offers guests the chance to get up close and personal, take their picture with, hug and even kiss wax likenesses of President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, actress, singer and teen sensation Selena Gomez, the Jonas Brothers, Tyra Banks, Penelope Cruz and many more.

Madame Tussauds Washington D.C. is a fully interactive, full-sensory experience, where visitors are able to touch, see and hear major historical events and celebrities in a way unlike any other Washington D.C. attraction. Recent additions to the attraction include actress, singer and teen sensation Selena Gomez; nine U.S. presidents which will be included in the under-construction U.S. Presidents Gallery opening in February 2011; music megastars and teen sensation, the Jonas Brothers; superstars Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Penelope Cruz and Tyra Banks; as well as President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. The attraction is located within walking distance of the National Mall and the White House. The entrance is on the corner of F and 10th Streets, NW. The attraction is metro-accessible by the Red, Blue, and Orange lines at Metro Center or the Yellow, Green, and Red lines at Gallery Place/Chinatown. Hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Sunday through Friday; and 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. on Saturdays. For more information, visit www.madametussaudsdc.com or call 202-942-7300 or 888-WAX-IN-DC.

WHAT: Madame Tussauds’ Memorial Day Holiday Weekend Celebration

WHEN: Friday, May 28 – Monday, May 31

WHERE: Madame Tussauds Washington D.C.

1001 F Street, NW (corner of 10th Street)

Washington D.C.

PRICE: Free Admission for U.S. Veterans and Members of the Military (Valid ID Required)

25% Discount for Anyone Wearing Red, White & Blue

Tags: Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum

Hollywood Wax Museum Gatlinburg- Bob Hope

2010-05-22T11:33:00.000-07:00

This shot of Bob Hope (1903-2003) comes from the Hollywood Wax Museum in Gatlinburg Tennessee. Nearly all of the scenes in the museum allow guests to be a part of the scene and take photos along with the celebrity wax figure. This is common for Madame Tussaud's wax museums, but is relatively new for the Hollywood Wax Museum chain. In this tableaux guests can take pictures on a putting green with the comedy legend.

A full view of the scene with figure. Most sets have these backdrops that add some depth to the set.

A close up of the figure. Hope was an avid golfer.

Most scenes have these "Star Scoop" information plaques that give details about the stars.

Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum Gatlinburg's website here.

Tags: Hollywood Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Bob Hope

Stars Hall of Fame Wax Museum- Time Tunnel of the Stars

2010-05-17T21:33:00.000-07:00

I recently received an email asking if I had any exterior or interior pictures from the Stars Hall of Fame Wax Museum in Orlando Florida, and this photo has always been a favorite. Just like Movieland Wax Museum, the Stars Hall of Fame honored the contributions that many of the pioneers in film have made. This tunnel highlights many of those same stars. Notice beyond the exit the Bijou Theatre. This is where the Laurel and Hardy exhibit was.

Tags: Stars Hall of Fame Orlando Wax Museum

News- Music Valley Wax Museum Destroyed By Flood

2010-05-08T22:33:00.000-07:00

A recent article by the Nashville Business Journal confirmed what I had been fearing. The Music Valley Wax Museum of the Stars was destroyed by the recent flooding in Nashville. The museum housed over 75 wax figures, and countless country music artifacts. I was extremely fortunate to have visited the museum just weeks before the flood, and I can personally say that it was a great experience. The good news is that the owner, Buddy Messer does indeed plan to salvage what he can and reopen in a new location. Most of the figure's heads were saved, but the one of a kind outfits they were wearing suffered heavy damage.

This is what the museum looked like in early April 2010. Just a few weeks before the flooding. The museum has a walk of fame with country singer's hand prints, similar to the Grauman's Chinese Theater.

The earliest dates I saw in the cement were from 1982. Many of them were far more recent.

The other side of the walkway. These two sections were filled up, so newer slabs were installed near the sidewalk.

The museum has this great sign. It is very tall, so there's little doubt that it stayed above water.

Tags: Music Valley Wax Museum

Movieland Wax Museum- The King and I

2010-04-25T16:33:00.000-07:00

This scene from the Movieland Wax Museum shows the classic film The King and I. Here we see Deborah Kerr and Yul Brynner. These were great figures, and this tableaux was often featured in advertisements, particularly in the museum's earlier days.

With the flash on, we can see more detail in the figure. How easy would it be to put a cowboy outfit on this figure and create a Westworld scene.

The Deborah Kerr figure is also detailed. Full torso figures are more difficult to produce than the typical head and hands style.

The scene from a slightly different angle.

The clapboard sign with some minor details about the film.

The figures were not for sale at the Movieland auction, but the set minus a few props sold for $200. The Yul Brynner figure, and perhaps the Deborah Kerr figure ended up at the World Wax Museum in South Korea.

Tags: Movieland Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax The King and I Yul Brynner

Music Valley Wax Museum- Little Jimmy Dickens

2010-04-20T17:33:00.000-07:00

The first country music star you'll pass in the Music Valley Wax Museum of the Stars in Nashville, Tennessee is Little Jimmy Dickens. One of the true legends of country music, Dickens was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1983. He is currently the oldest member.

Here's another shot of the musician with his autographed hat.

Another view of the figure, this time with flash on.

Most of the figures have name plaques, which is good because not all of them are easily recognizable.

View more information on Little Jimmy Dickens here.

Tags: Music Valley Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Little Jimmy Dickens

Southwestern Historical Wax Museum- Bonnie and Clyde

2010-04-17T08:33:00.000-07:00

When you think of the Southwestern Historical Wax Museum, you think of Bonnie and Clyde. Famous for its "Bonnie and Clyde death car", the museum seemed to feature the two in most of its advertising. Although that car was actually from the popular movie about the two outlaws, and not the true life car, these two figure are representing the real life criminals (A Bonnie and Clyde movie tableaux was also on display at the museum).

Clyde Barrow (1909-1934) stands with his gun in his pants.

Bonnie Parker (1910-1934) holding the rifle.

Tags: Louis Tussaud's Southwestern Historical Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Bonnie and Clyde

American Heritage Wax Museum- The Kennedys

2010-04-13T08:33:00.000-07:00

This view from the American Heritage Wax Museum shows former President and First Lady John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy. The set isn't very detailed, with only an American flag behind them (curtains were the best friend of wax museums set decorators). However, there is an understated elegance to the figures.

A closer view of JFK in his tuxedo.

Jacqueline Kennedy in her dress. These figures highlight the Kennedy administration's era of Camelot.

Tags: American Heritage Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax JFK

Hollywood Wax Museum- Jude Law

2010-04-09T08:33:00.000-07:00

Here we see another wax figure from the Hollywood Wax Museum. This is Jude Law, the British movie star from such films as Alfie, Sherlock Holmes, and the new movie Repo Men. He stands in the Hollywood Award show section of the museum, posing for all of the guests in the museum.

Another view of the figure.

And a profile.

As you can see, the figure is in good company, with A-list stars all around.

Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum website here.

Tags: Hollywood Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Jude Law

News- George Lopez In Madame Tussaud's

2010-04-05T16:33:00.000-07:00

On April 1st, Comedian and talk show host George Lopez unveiled his new wax figure at Madame Tussaud's Hollywood. Here we see him do the traditional "pose like your wax figure" stance. Lopez had detailed the wax figure process on his show, and now he joins other Hollywood celebrities at the new museum.

Another shot of the two.

And a close up of the star with his wax doppelganger.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's website here.

Tags: Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax George Lopez

Stars Hall of Fame Wax Museum- The Nutty Professor

2010-03-14T20:33:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick shot of Jerry Lewis as The Nutty Professor from the Stars Hall of Fame Wax Museum in Florida. Lewis plays Julius Kelp, a nerdy scientist who transforms himself into the cool and good looking Buddy Love.

Tags: Stars Hall of Fame Orlando Wax Museum Wax Nutty Professor

Miami Wax Museum- Battle of Yorktown

2010-02-23T18:33:00.000-08:00

(1781)

The battle of Yorktown marked the final stage in the war for Independence. It was in October, 1781, that Washington and 6,000 French troops under de Rochambeau (left) laid siege to Yorktown where Lord Cornwallace' army had been bottled up. The English positions fell before a night attack by troops bearing the Stars and Stripes Flag and the Banner of Auvergne under de Rochambeau. The next day Washington was to say: "The work is done and well done, America will soon be forever free from foreign domination."

de Rochambeau (1725-1807).

General Goerge Washington (1732-1799).

An unmentioned General. Perhaps Lafayette.

The loading of the cannon.

Tags: Miami Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Battle of Yorktown George Washington Rochambeau

Madame Tussauds Plans $2 Million Presidential Gallery

2010-02-18T20:33:00.001-08:00

WASHINGTON D.C. MAYOR ADRIAN M. FENTY AND MADAME TUSSAUDS WASHINGTON D.C. UNVEIL PLANS FOR NEW $2 MILLION-PLUS U.S. PRESIDENTIAL GALLERY FEATURING WAX FIGURES OF ALL 44 U.S. PRESIDENTS TO OPEN IN FALL 2010

30 First Graders from Cleveland Elementary School Participated in Announcement Ceremony Unveiling Nine New U.S. President Wax Figures, Including President Grover Cleveland.

Launch of New Presidential Gallery to Make Attraction Only Place in the World Where People Can See and Interact with All 44 U.S. Presidents.

[Washington D.C., February 16, 2010] Serving as the perfect tie-in to Presidents Week, donning construction hats amid a room decorated in red, white and blue bunting and banners, Mayor Adrian M. Fenty joined Janine DiGioacchino, General Manager of Madame Tussauds New York and Washington D.C. to announce plans for the creation of a new $2 million-plus U.S. Presidential Gallery that will house wax figures of all 44 U.S. presidents—nine of which made their debuts at the event. Scheduled to open in fall 2010, the launch of the Gallery will make Madame Tussauds D.C. the only place in the world where people can see and interact with all 44 U.S. presidents.

“This fall visitors to Madame Tussauds Washington D.C. will have the chance to step into history and interact with all of the U.S. presidents in a way unlike ever before,” said DiGioacchino. “As the only place in the world where people will be able to meet and take a picture with all 44 U.S. presidents, Madame Tussauds D.C. will provide a unique and enriching educational experience for history buffs, students and general visitors alike. We know everyone will love seeing and interacting with our new figures, and the gallery.”

At the event Mayor Fenty helped unveil artist renderings of the new gallery and spoke briefly while attendees admired the nine new wax figures of U.S. presidents that were on display: John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, William Henry Harrison, James Buchanan, Andrew Johnson, James Garfield, Chester Alan Arthur, Grover Cleveland and Gerald Ford. Additionally, 30 first grade students were on-hand from D.C. Public School Cleveland Elementary to “meet” the new wax figure of the U.S. president for whom their school is named, Grover Cleveland. Concluding the event, a mold cast was used to create an impression of Mayor Fenty’s hands for a plaque that will hang in the entry hallway of the Gallery once it is completed.

“Among the many museums and entertainment options in Washington, Madame Tussauds uniquely combines art, popular culture and entertainment,” said Mayor Adrian M. Fenty. “The presidential gallery now adds the important component of education while celebrating the unique heritage of our city.”

New figures will be unveiled throughout the year and put on display at Madame Tussauds D.C. until all 44 U.S. presidents are ready to be installed in the new Gallery this fall.

A tremendous undertaking, Madame Tussauds artists will create wax figures of 28 U.S. presidents, which will be introduced in several phases, with the first grouping unveiled at the event. Each figure takes about three to four months to complete and requires an extensive amount of work. In order to make the figures as lifelike as possible, Madame Tussauds artists have to study hundreds of photographs, and when available, hours of video footage. Of course in some cases, the artists will not have the luxury of photographs or videos, and will need to rely on historical accounts, even paintings.

The addition of the new Presidential Gallery will serve as a rich educational resource and include a curriculum focused on the history of the U.S. presidents. The new curriculum will fully complement the attraction’s existing and free comprehensive Educational Curriculum Guide, which was developed in accordance with the US Department of National Social Studies Standards and National Council for the Social Civil Rights Movement Studies Standards. The guide was designed to empower educators with the tools they need to deliver exciting lessons in areas such as history, political science, social studies and media – before and after visiting the attraction.

Additionally, in celebration of Presidents Week Madame Tussauds D.C. will offer free admission to any visitor who has the same first or last name as United States Presidents George Washington or Abraham Lincoln (valid photo ID required) from February 14 – February 20, 2010.

About Madame Tussauds Washington D.C.

Madame Tussauds Washington D.C. is a fully interactive, full-sensory experience, where visitors are able to touch, see and hear major historical events and celebrities in a way unlike any other Washington D.C. attraction. Recent additions to the attraction include superstars Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Penelope Cruz and Tyra Banks; as well as President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. The attraction is located within walking distance of the National Mall and the White House. The entrance is on the corner of 10th and F Streets, NW. The attraction is metro-accessible by the Red, Blue, and Orange lines at Metro Center or the Yellow, Green, and Red lines at Gallery Place/Chinatown. Hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday; and 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For more information, visit www.madametussaudsdc.com or call 202-942-7300.

Photo Credit: Kris Connor/Getty Images

Potter's Wax Museum- Edward IV

2010-01-20T19:33:00.000-08:00

(1442-1483)

This elaborate wax figure of Edward IV, twice King of England highlights the attitude and adornment of the king whose reign was so much associated with violence.

A closer view of the wax figure. Known as a tall and handsome man, Edward stands here stern and imposing.

Some technological advances which happened during his reign include the Caxton printing press and the manufacturing of silk.

Visit the Potter's Wax Museum's website here.

Tags: Potter's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Edward IV

Movieland Wax Museum- Slim Summerville and Zasu Pitts

2010-01-12T18:33:00.000-08:00

Here's a nice little scene from the Movieland Wax Museum of popular silent film actor Slim Summerville, and actress Zasu Pitts. The pair worked together in over a dozen films from 1930 to 1941.

The same scene with the flash on.

A closer view of Zasu Pitts.

Mr. Summerville standing behind a tuba and looking a little confused.

The two figures were not featured in the Movieland auction, but the set sold for $300.

Tags: Movieland Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Slim Summerville Zasu Pitts

Spirit of Monterey Wax Museum- Ohlone Chief

2009-12-31T08:33:00.000-08:00

Here we see a really nice wax figure of one of the Ohlone natives, presumably the tribe's chief. Notice the headdress, and the staff.

With flash we can see in more detail how elaborate the figure is dressed.

This is a close up of the highly detailed figure. This is perhaps the best sculpted figure in the entire museum, and definitely one of my favorites.

Tags: John Steinbeck Wax Museum Figure Cannery Row Monterey Ohlone

Musée Conti- Return to Basin Street

2009-12-29T20:33:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Houses of Wax reader Purple Peanut for these recent pictures from Musée Conti's Basin Street tableau. As you can see, the scene looks similar to the way it did in the vintage image. The only difference is that in the background we can see the Razzy Dazzy Spasm Band. These figures used to belong to the Jelly Roll Morton scene, but are now here in the Storyville set.

The prostitute is pick pocketing the sailor, which was not clearly seen in my first Basin Street post.

A closer view of the prostitutes fighting.

And a close up of the action.

The taller dark hair woman seems to be losing the fight.

The red head appears more angry. Notice the tape keeping her hand connected to her arm.

Visit the Musée Conti website here.

Tags: Musée Conti Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Basin Street

News- Sean Diddy Combs at Madame Tussaud's

2009-12-22T22:33:00.000-08:00

This past week, Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum in New York Unveiled a new wax figure of rap musician and media mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs.

The star with his wax figure.

I know, they look so real.

The real Sean Combs looks so under dressed compared to his figure.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's website here.

Tags: Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Diddy

Madame Tussauds Vegas- Johnny Depp

2009-12-16T11:33:00.000-08:00

Standing with his hand in his pocket is Johnny Depp. Well, his wax figure anyway. Behind the figure is a pirate ship set which highlights the actors role in the Pirates of the Caribbean films.

A close up of the figure. It doesn't look like he's very happy.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's website here.

Tags: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Johnny Depp

Musée Conti- Lower Basin Street

2009-12-14T18:33:00.000-08:00

New Orleans 1910, the main street of the red light district. Lower Basin Street is lined with taverns, saloons and prostitutes. This typical scene shows the licentiousness of Basin Street, with its brothels, and violence.

A man and a woman embracing near a window.

This close up shows two inhabitants settling a disagreement the way differences of opinions were usually settled in this neighborhood- with physical violence!

Note: these two figures bear a striking resemblance to two figures from the Paris Spectacular Wax Museum. Perhaps they came from the same mold, or are the same figures.

Visit the Musée Conti website here.

Tags: Musée Conti Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Basin Street

National Historical Wax Museum- Juliette Gordon Low

2009-12-12T16:33:00.000-08:00

(1860-1927)

Here we see a wax figure of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA. This figure, which belonged to the National Historical Wax Museum, shows Low in her uniform. Low developed breast cancer in 1923, and passed from the disease in 1927.

A closer view of the figure.

Thanks to Purplepeanut for this wonderful image!

Tags: National Historical Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Juliette Gordon Low

Royal London Wax Museum- Queen Victoria

2009-12-10T09:33:00.000-08:00

(1819-1901)

Here we see the wax figure of Queen Victoria at the Royal London Wax Museum in British Columbia, Canada. She is known as the longest reigning monarch of the British Kingdom, and the longest female monarch in history.

A close up of the wax figure sitting.

Visit the Royal London Wax Museum website here.

Tags: Royal London Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Queen Victoria

Walter's International Wax Museum- Exterior

2009-12-08T09:33:00.000-08:00

This image of the Walter's International Wax Museum at the 1964/65 New York World's Fair shows an artists rendering of the exterior of the building. Walter's Wax Museum was basically the same wax museum as the Paris Spectacular Wax Museum from the 1962 Seattle World's Fair. After the 1965 season, the museum received a new home down the street from Disneyland and was renamed the Wide World in Wax. However, that venture lasted just a short time before closing.

Tags: Walters Wax Museum Figure New York World's Fair

Potter's Wax Museum- William Caxton

2009-12-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

(1422-1491)

This photograph from Potter's Wax Museum shows a wax figure of William Caxton, the first English printer. His printing press made possible many of the printed works of the Elizabethan era. Caxton continued printing his whole life, even hours before his death.

A close up of Caxton using his printing press.

Visit the Potter's Wax Museum's website here.

Tags: Potter's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax William Caxton

Madame Tussaud's- The Beatles

2009-12-04T09:33:00.000-08:00

Perhaps the greatest Rock n' Roll group of all time, the Beatles are seen here in a vintage Madame Tussaud's tableau. This is a representation of the early beatles, and many museums have created figures of the group from their various stages with Sgt. Pepper being the most surreal.

George sits above the rest of the band.

John stands beside the piano listening.

Ringo holds his drum sticks while Paul plays the piano. Just being able to tell the figures apart (not so easy with other Beatles figures) shows how talented Madame Tussaud's is in creating realistic wax figures.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's London website here.

Tags: Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Beatles

Historial de Touraine- Saint Martin

2009-12-02T08:33:00.000-08:00

Saint Martin, Bishop of Tours and founder of the Abbey of Marmoutier, blesses the young Patrick, who will leave to evangelize Ireland.

A closer view of the two saints. Such incredible detail in this museum which is part of Musée Grévin in France, and is located at Chateau Royal 25 av. Andre-Malraux , France.

Tags: Historial de Touraine Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Saint Martin Saint Patrick

Hollywood Wax Museum- Matthew McConaughey

2009-11-30T09:33:00.000-08:00

You might not recognize him with his shirt on, but this figure from the Hollywood Wax Museum is movie star Matthew McConaughey. This is the Hollywood gathering section of the museum, perhaps an awards show, or a movie premiere, and Mr. Maconahay stands ready to get his picture taken.

Another view of the figure.

Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum website here.

Tags: Hollywood Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Matthew McConaughey

Tussaud's London Wax Museum- Alice in Wonderland

2009-11-28T09:33:00.000-08:00

Fantasy is an often overlooked subject for wax museums, and the genre has slowly been removed from most museums. However, here we see Alice in Wonderland represented at the Louis/Josephine Tussaud's London Wax Museum in St. Petersburg Florida.

The evil Queen of Hearts.

The King of Hearts along with the back of Alice's head. It's unfortunate that there's not more scenes like this around anymore.

Learn more about the London Wax Museum here.

Tags: Louis Tussaud's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Alice in Wonderland

Plymouth National Wax Museum- Embarkation of the Pilgrims

2009-11-26T08:33:00.000-08:00

This tableau from the Plymouth National Wax Museum shows the Pilgrims on their way to the new world. Before they celebrated their first thanksgiving, they had to withstand a grueling and deadly trip to America. Many people died, and their arrival only brought them new challenges.

A couple wax figures on the boat.

A few more reading the Bible.

An old woman and a child.

Tags: Plymouth Wax Museum Wax Pilgrim

National Presidential Wax Museum- Martin Van Buren and John Quincy Adams

2009-11-24T09:33:00.000-08:00

In this scene from the National Presidential Wax Museum, Presidents Martin Van Buren and John Q. Adams are attending a white house reception.

Here we see President Van Buren and his daughter in-law Angelica.

John Q. Adams with possibly Daniel Webster standing behind him.

Visit the National Presidential Wax Museum website here.

Tags: National Presidential Wax Museum John Quincy Adams Martin Van Buren

Movieland Wax Museum- Singin' in the Rain

2009-11-22T09:33:00.000-08:00

One of my personal favorite tableaux from Movieland Wax Museum is this magnificent display of Gene Kelly from Singin' in the Rain. With actual water falling from the ceiling, the scene is far above most wax museum scenes. The famous song plays as people view the figure.

A shot with flash shows more detail, but has less atmosphere.

A close up of Mr. Kelly.

One of the ever present clapboard signs detailing information on the movie. Notice the sign says Singing not Singin'.

The wax figure of Mr. Kelly was not sold at the Movieland auction, but the set sold for $200.

Tags: Movieland Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Gene Kelly

Williamsburg National Wax Museum- Exterior

2009-11-20T09:33:00.000-08:00

Here's an artist's rendition of the Williamsburg National Wax Museum building. Featuring over 40 scenes of American history, the museum focused on Colonial America.

Tags: Williamsburg Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax

Calico Ghost Town- Drug Store

2009-11-18T09:33:00.000-08:00

This is the exterior of the drug store in Calico Ghost Town. Behind the windows lies a small scene of what a shop like this would have looked like back in the silver mining days.

This figure doesn't look much like a pharmacist. Perhaps he is waiting for his medicine.

A close up of the figure.

The medicine bottles sitting on the shelf.

Information on the drug stores in Calico.

Prices of medicine in Calico.

Visit the Calico Ghost Town website here.

Tags: Calico Ghost Town Wax Figure Drug Store

Paris Spectacular Wax Museum- The Sad Legend of Cyparisse

2009-11-16T09:33:00.000-08:00

In the Falling Darkness, this young Greek hero wounded a hind with an arrow, and was stricken with grief when he realized what he had done. On the point of committing suicide, Cyparisse was saved by Apollo, who gave him the shape of the eternally green cypress tree. Ever since, the cypress has been symbolic of grief

Learn about the Seattle World's Fair here.

Tags: Paris Spectacular Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Cyparisse

Burning Spring Wax Museum- Marquis Louis-Joseph de Montcalm

2009-11-14T09:33:00.000-08:00

(1712-1759)

Here's a shot of French and Indian War General Marquis Louis-Joseph de Montcalm from the Burning Spring Wax Museum in Niagara Falls Canada. Montcalm died from wounds sustained during the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in Quebec.

View More information on Montcalm here.

Tags: Burning Spring Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Marquis Montcalm

National Civil War Wax Museum- Life in the South

2009-11-12T10:33:00.000-08:00

In this shot of from the National Civil War Wax Museum, we see a typical scene of the American South before the Civil War. Slaves are picking cotton for the wealthy slave owners. The crop of cotton was a driving factor in the "need" for slaves, and the export and use of the material only drove the south further into the slave trade. As more territories became states, the balance of Slave and free states became harder to control.

This scene is done fairly well, with its use of a mural to create greater depth in the tableau.

Visit the American Civil War Museum's website here.

Tags: National Civil War Wax Museum Gettysburg

Madame Tussauds Vegas- Gerard Depardieu

2009-11-10T10:33:00.000-08:00

Sitting at a table at Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum in Las Vegas is Gerard Depardieu. The French actor has appeared in both English language and French films.

Another view of the actor.

And a close up of the figure's face.

Visit the Madame Tussaud's website here.

Tags: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Gerard Depardieu

Musée Grévin- Exterior

2009-11-08T10:33:00.000-08:00

I really like this image of the Musée Grévin in France. The architecture looks so Art Deco and European. Who would not want to enter this historical museum and see the wonders it holds. The entrance still looks similar today as it did in this photo, but the figures atop the balcony are gone and the facade has been painted.

Visit the Musée Grévin website here.

Tags: Grevin Wax Museum Wax Figure

Stars Over Gatlinburg Wax Museum- Wizard of Oz

2009-11-06T10:33:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Purplepeanut for this shot of The Wizard of Oz from the Stars Over Gatlinburg Wax Museum. Just about every entertainment based wax museum has a Wizard of Oz display, and this one is no exception. The Scarecrow looks decent, but I have seen better Dorothys. We'll have more images from this museum soon.

Tags: Stars Over Gatlinburg Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Wizard of Oz Judy Garland

Potter's Wax Museum- Joan of Arc

2009-11-04T10:33:00.000-08:00

(1412-1431)

Joan of arc, the French knight is shown here at the Potter's Wax Museum holding her sword. A popular figure for historical museums, she died when she was executed for heresy.

A closer view of the figure.

Visit the Potter's Wax Museum's website here.

Tags: Potter's Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Joan of Arc

Country Music Wax Museum- Minnie Pearl

2009-11-02T09:33:00.000-08:00

(1912-1996)

Here we see Minnie Pearl (Born Sarah Colley) at the Country Music Wax Museum in Nashville Tennessee. Pearl was a longtime guest of both the Grand Ole Opry and the television show Hee Haw.

The Country Music Wax Museum was open from 1971 until about 1997 or so, and the figures were left in the buildings basement. At least one figure, Tennessee Ernie Ford, went up for auction on ebay.

Tags: Country Music Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Minnie Pearl

Disneyland- Halloween Roundup

2009-10-31T13:33:00.000-07:00

In the old log cabin at Big Thunder Ranch we find part of the Halloween Roundup celebration. Here a a few shots of the cowboy pumpkin men that offer a not so frightful experience. First are these two who are playing cards.

Another cowboy standing by a table.

Is this Black Bart enjoying some punch?

This saloon girl is serenading the cowboys.

Happy Halloween everyone!

Tags: Disneyland Halloween

Stars Hall of Fame Wax Museum- Mr. Hyde

2009-10-27T20:33:00.000-07:00

Dr. Jekyll would not be the same without his transformation into Mr. Hyde. Here we see the monster as he appeared in the 1931 film. This figure from the Stars Hall of Fame Wax Museum compliments the Dr. Jekyll figure from a previous post.

Tags: Stars Hall of Fame Orlando Wax Museum Wax Mr. Hyde

Stars Hall of Fame Wax Museum- Dr. Jekyll

2009-10-25T00:33:00.000-07:00

This shot from the Stars Hall of Fame Wax Museum in Orlando shows Dr. Jekyll before he turned into the evil Mr. Hyde. The figure is sculpted to resemble Fredric March from the 1931 version of the movie.

Tags: Stars Hall of Fame Orlando Wax Museum Wax Dr. Jekyll

Movieland Wax Museum- The Wolf Man

2009-10-21T08:33:00.000-07:00

Frightening guests of the Movieland Wax Museum is the Wolf Man from the 1941 film of the same name. Lon Chaney Jr. stars as this horrible monster, and he is not one to be messed with.

A wider shot of the scene. Several different characters have stood here as the greeter to the Chamber of Horrors.

A close up of the figure. He is a well groomed Wolf Man at least.

The clapboard sign detailing the film.

I'm not sure what happened to the figure after the museum closed. It wasn't in the auction as far as I know.

Tags: Movieland Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Wolfman

Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf- Grave Robber

2009-10-19T19:33:00.000-07:00

This poor grave robber has toppled over. He must have been overwhelmed by the stench of death as he opened the coffin. I wonder what that stiff had tried to take with him that is so important to this guy.

A close up of the robber.

Visit the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf website here.

Tags: San Francisco Wax Museum Wax Figure Wax Grave Robber