Quite apart from being one of the coolest guys I know, Pete Vilmur’s articles on StarWars.com never fail to educate and amaze, and this look back four decades to the late 70’s and the California Originals character mugs is no exception.
And the fact that this is one of George Lucas’ favourite collectibles makes it even more fascinating.
Released in early 1978, ahead of the iconic action figure line, the earthenware Chewbacca tankard sculpted by Jim Rumph and produced by California Originals is still considered a gem by both vintage and modern collectors alike. Adored for its artistry, quality and personality, the tankard (a term which by design evokes an “olde tyme” air) actually became an early favorite of George Lucas himself, who, according to Steve Sansweet’s From Concept to Screen to Collectible, often imagined a Wookiee mug sitting on his desk while he penned his epic space adventure.
