Gus writes:
Fans might be familiar with the “Darth Vader in Flames” imagery used to promote The Empire Strikes Back. Through these artifacts, we’re able to show its evolution from concept to behind-the-scenes items to commercial product. It began with the work of legendary artist Ralph McQuarrie. An early incarnation of “Vader in Flames” was in the form of a tiny thumbnail by McQuarrie:
Done in pencil and marker, this early concept is remarkably close to the final design. Note the light blue halo over Vader’s helmet, which will play a part in some of the next stages.
This artwork below is extraordinary. This is Ralph McQuarrie’s final specification art for the Vader in Flames patch. It has all the details for the manufacturer to produce and layout the crew patch including placement and choices for colors, the design of the Empire logo, and notes with specifics.
As many fans know, a
