Animation Maquettes

Before there can be an animated character, there is an animation maquette, a 3-D sculpture of the character in final form. This allows the various animators to draw their characters from every angle, keeping them "on model" at all times. These maquettes are a work of art in themselves, which is why we present them to you here. More...

Identify This Disney Collectible

This item was listed on eBay as a model kit. Now, I don't think there has ever been a model kit made from The Great Mouse Detective; this looks more like a maquette to me. Alas, I didn't win the auction, so I can't give you anything more than these pictures, but any information you have will be appreciated.

You may have noticed that Ratigan's tail is missing, which might have given the seller the idea that this was a model kit. Do maquette's come apart like this? Are they created in pieces? Surely someone out there knows more than I do on this subject.