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Daniel LaRusso's (Ralph Macchio) screen-matched headband from John G. Avildsen's The Karate Kid. After Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita) gifted him with his lotus flower headband, or hachimaki, Daniel wore it in several key sequences, including during the landmark "Wax On, Wax Off" scene.
Daniel's headbands were exclusively screen-printed from different screens, creating variance between the lotus flower symbols at their centers as well as the polka dot patterns surrounding them. Distinctive patterning in the blue dots on this headband. as well as small blemishes in the printing, screen-match exactly to when Miyagi cleaned Daniel's wounds after his fight with Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka).
While writer Robert Mark Kamen's original script called for Miyagi to use a standard rag while helping Daniel, actor Morita instead used his own personal hachimaki, a traditional style of Japanese helmet scarf harkening back to the age of the samurai. Morita's hachimaki - a symbol in Japanese culture of courage, perseverance, and bravery - is today recognized as the titular character's signature accessory. While the design of his headbands changed in The Karate Kid Part II, Daniel continued to wear them throughout his appearances in the franchise.
Upon its release, The Karate Kid earned an Academy Award® nomination for Morita's classic performance as well as more than $130 million in global box office receipts. Today, it remains among the most beloved films of the 1980s, having been selected by the Library of Congress for permanent preservation in the National Film Registry for its historic contributions to American culture.
This polka dot-patterned cloth headband with a lotus flower symbol print at center originates from the personal collection of The Karate Kid producer Jerry Weintraub. The headband shows evidence of intentional distressing by production together with wear consistent with on-set use, handling, and age, including frayed edges and staining throughout.
Estimate: $20,000 - 40,000
View all lots from KARATE KID, THE (1984)
This item comes with a Propstore Certificate of Authenticity.