The Academy Awards, more commonly known as the Oscars, are one of the world’s most prestigious and sought-after film awards. While the glitz and glamour of the awards ceremony are often the focus of attention, the history behind the iconic Oscar trophy is equally fascinating.
The design of the Oscar trophy is credited to Cedric Gibbons, the head of the art department at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) studios, and sculptor George Stanley. The inspiration for the design is said to have come from a combination of classical and art deco styles, with a focus on the idealized human form.
The first Oscars ceremony was held in 1929, and the winners were presented with a trophy that stood at just 13.5 inches tall and weighed in at a modest 8.5 pounds. The original design featured a knight holding a crusader’s sword, standing on a film reel with five spokes, each representing one of the original branches of the Academy: actors, directors, producers, technicians, and writers.
Over the years, the design of the Oscar trophy has undergone several changes. In 1938, the base of the trophy was changed to a round shape with a black marble finish, and the number of spokes on the film reel was increased to represent the now twelve branches of the Academy.
During World War II, due to metal shortages, the Oscar trophy was made out of painted plaster for three years, from 1942 to 1945. In 1983, the trophy was changed from its original gold-plated bronze to a gold-plated britannia metal. The new material was lighter, making it easier for presenters and winners to handle.
In 2016, the trophy was given a significant makeover. The new design, created by the jewelry and accessory designer David Korins, features a higher-gloss finish, sharper edges, and a bolder base. The most significant change, however, was the use of 24-karat gold plating, which gives the trophy a brighter and more lustrous finish.
In addition to its iconic design, the Oscar trophy is known for its strict handling guidelines. Winners are not allowed to sell their trophies without first offering them back to the Academy for $1. They are also prohibited from making any alterations to the trophy, including engraving their names on it.
The Oscar trophy has become synonymous with excellence in the film industry and is a symbol of achievement for filmmakers and actors around the world. Its evolution over the past century is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Academy Awards and the dedication of those who have worked to create and maintain the tradition of the Oscars.
The exact origins of the name “Oscar” for the Academy Awards trophy are unclear, but there are a few different theories.
One popular theory is that the trophy was named after the uncle of Academy librarian Margaret Herrick. She reportedly thought that the statue resembled her uncle Oscar, and the name caught on among Academy staff and eventually became the official nickname for the award.
Another theory suggests that the nickname “Oscar” may have originated from a comment made by Academy President Bette Davis in the 1930s. According to this theory, Davis remarked that the statue looked like her husband, Harmon Oscar Nelson, and the name “Oscar” stuck from there.
Regardless of the true origins of the nickname, the name “Oscar” has become synonymous with the Academy Awards trophy and is widely recognized worldwide.
