The Golden Fertility Idol from the memorable opening scenes of the Steven Spielberg classic Raiders of the Lost Ark. This incredible prop is one of the most famous props of modern cinema and just like Dr. Jones, collectors the world over have searched for it.

This is one of two Idol props taken to Kauai, Hawaii for location filming.  The exterior scenes filmed there show Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) diving out of the temple entrance, and then forfeiting the Idol to Belloq (played by Paul Freeman), who proudly shows it to the native Hovitos.  This version of the prop features static eyes, the brown glass eyes are permanently fixed into the head and do not move.  All of the Idol props used in Raiders had brown glass eyes, and at least one mechanical version was built in which the eyes could move left to right.  The original intent was for the eyes to follow Indy around the room as he approached the alter, but most of these scenes were cut from the film.  The eyes can be seen scanning from side to side for just an instant in the final version of the film.

Raiders of the Lost Ark is one of the most successful films of all time, spawning three sequels and a spin off TV series. It was released in 1981 to huge box office receipts and critical acclaim. It was nominated for eight Oscars of which four were won. It is as popular today with new audiences as it was the day it was premiered, the opening notes of the theme tune still give goosebumps to your average thirtysomething.

Whenever the idol is moved – you must remember to replace it with a bag of sand!