Own an authentic vintage Death Studios creation from one of the most respected names in independent horror mask making.
Handcrafted by Death Studios, this original Franken-Zombie w/Hair is an exceptionally substantial horror mask combining classic Frankenstein-inspired imagery with a wonderfully grotesque undead aesthetic.
Sculpted by artist John Smith, Franken-Zombie was offered by Death Studios in several different versions. Due to the unusual height of the character's elongated head, Death Studios recommends using a small amount of lightweight support material inside the crown when necessary to achieve the intended shape or fit.
Each example was handmade in the USA by Death Studios owner Jeff Death. Unlike mass-produced commercial Halloween masks, Death Studios pieces are individually hand cast and hand painted, resulting in natural variations between examples.
As part of our research into this collection, we contacted Death Studios directly regarding vintage production practices. Jeff Death confirmed that standard production masks generally were not individually dated or marked, and that production dates cannot reliably be determined from photographs alone. Identification therefore relies upon the sculpt, paint scheme, catalog references, construction, and overall craftsmanship.
Franken-Zombie features an exaggerated elongated head, deeply sculpted wrinkles and veins, extensive distressed flesh detailing, asymmetrical character eyes, exposed teeth, stitches, staples, and dimensional hardware, all complemented by wonderfully sparse and straggly black hair.
This particular example is exceptionally substantial, constructed from thick, heavyweight latex and weighing approximately 2 pounds. Measuring approximately 18 inches high, the extended neck and broad shoulder/chest bib give Franken-Zombie the presence of a full creature bust when displayed.
The interior construction also exhibits the natural characteristics associated with individually cast latex production rather than the uniform appearance typically associated with mass-produced factory masks.
Item Details
• Authentic vintage Death Studios Franken-Zombie w/Hair mask
• Sculpted by artist John Smith
• Handmade in the USA by Death Studios owner Jeff Death
• Individually hand cast and hand painted
• Offered by Death Studios in multiple configurations and versions
• Striking green character paint scheme
• Exceptionally thick, heavyweight latex construction
• Approximately 2 lbs.
• Approximately 18" H x 12" W x 11" D
• Exaggerated elongated head design
• Oversized extended neck and shoulder/chest bib
• Sparse, straggly black character hair
• Asymmetrical character eyes
• Exposed teeth and detailed mouth sculpt
• Extensive sculpted and painted veins, wounds, scars, stitches, and distressed detailing
• Dimensional staples and hardware details
• Manufacturer recommends lightweight support inside the tall crown when needed for proper shaping
• Impressive full-bust appearance when displayed
• Vintage horror mask collector piece
Condition
Very good vintage condition overall.
The latex remains exceptionally substantial and flexible, retaining strong sculpt definition throughout the face, elongated head, neck, and oversized shoulder area. The original green paint scheme remains visually striking, with extensive hand-applied shading and character detailing throughout.
As expected with a previously owned vintage latex collectible, there is age-related surface wear, discoloration, scuffing, cracking/crazing, and other signs of age and previous handling. The sparse black hair remains irregular and straggly as intended, with individual loose and flyaway strands present.
The rear opening, underside, interior construction, hair, hardware, and detailed surface condition have all been extensively photographed so collectors can carefully evaluate the exact example being offered.
No restoration or cosmetic repair has been attempted by HorrorCurator. We prefer to preserve vintage pieces such as this in their existing condition rather than alter the original materials, paintwork, or artist-applied details.
Please Note
Death Studios offered Franken-Zombie in both wearable and display configurations. Wearable versions incorporated concealed vision slits, breathing openings, and a rear opening, while display versions were produced without vision or breathing openings and were not cut up the back.
The interior of this example has been inspected and no individual production date, model identifier, or factory markings were found. Based upon information provided directly by Death Studios, this is consistent with their standard production practices and should not be considered unusual.
Individual handmade Death Studios masks may naturally exhibit variations in casting, paint application, trimming, hair placement, and finishing.
Measurements and weight are approximate.
The display stand and support materials shown in the photographs are used for presentation purposes only and are not included.
Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and document the exact Franken-Zombie w/Hair mask the buyer will receive.
Your collectible will be professionally packaged with exceptional care to help protect the latex, hair, and dimensional details and preserve its shape during shipment. Combined shipping is always available whenever practical.
Questions?
Please feel free to contact us with any questions before purchasing. We’re always happy to help. Thank you for visiting HorrorCurator.
Authentic. Rare. Curated.