The Deadly Mantis (Original photograph from the 1957 film)

Universal City: Universal-International, 1957. Vintage publicity photograph from the 1957 film, showing actors Alix Talton and Craig Stevens being menaced by the massive, titular insect. Printed mimeo snipe affixed to the verso.

A prehistoric praying mantis is freed from the ice and wreaks havoc on the American military stationed in the northern Arctic, slowly making its way south. The film utilized a giant paper mâché mantis with an internal hydraulic system for several scenes involving the creature, and special effects crew also created two smaller models for scenes where the mantis walked or flew.

From the archive of noted Hollywood still photographer Ray Jones. Born in Wisconsin on January 1, 1901, Jones worked for Paramount Pictures in the early 1930s, and went on to be the head of the still photography department at Universal Pictures in 1935, where he worked well into the 1950s.

8 x 10 inches. Very Good plus.