Marion Weintraut flexes some architectural might and probably more than a few LEGO bricks with this stunning Ruyi Bridge. I’m in awe of its intricate waving construct; a feat that doesn’t look easy. It’s a delicate and beautiful structure that would look handsome as a display at any architectural firm. I would probably be too frightened to traverse such a dizzying structure had it have been real. Well, I should hang on tight and have a sick bag at the ready because, as it turns out, it is!
Back in 2015, LEGO came out with 10251 Modular Bank set. It retailed for $170 back then but, like most good investments, it appreciated in value and you’d have to shell out more than twice as much nowadays to get your greasy mitts on one. Or, adversely, you can do what Marion Weintraut has done and build a scaled-down version of it. Whether it be the archways, the corner clock or the little ladder out front, she doesn’t miss a detail with this tiny bank. There’s been a slew of microscale set remakes lately and we’re a little thrilled about it. Actually a lot thrilled, but the retro set remakes are still little. That came out weird but you know what I mean!
What’s even more difficult than creating just the perfect LEGO minifigure for your creation? Crafting the perfect character in a small scale without using minifigures. Well, ok, this build by Marion Weintraut actually uses a lot of minifigure pieces, just not how you’re “supposed” to. The long-running comic strip hero Lucky Luke and his horse Jolly Jumper are wonderfully gangly and full of cartoon whimsy. From the perfectly placed hollow studs for Jolly’s nostrils, to the small slope for Luke’s bandana and the minifigure pirate hook for his cigarette, there are so many techniques to love here.
Although, while I’m always a fan of unorthodox techniques, I do detect a slight twitch in my eye at the way the minifigure arms are connected for Jolly’s tail. Let’s both pretend we didn’t see that, and enjoy the rest of this splendid creation.
To be honest, when I chose to write this, I had heard of Fabergé Eggs but knew nothing of their history. I quickly learned that these aren’t just a generic tradition of creating fancy eggs. They are incredibly rare — as in, the original “Imperial Eggs” are each one-of-a-kind and worth millions of dollars. Ironically, LEGO versions of the eggs, like this one built by Marion Weintraut, are possibly even more rare. Of course, not being worth millions could be due to the fact that they aren’t loaded with actual gold and precious stones. Still, this one-of-a-kind piece is indeed regal and elegant!
There is something so royal and appealing about blue and gold! A couple of the real ones followed the same combo. Once upon a time, we discovered another LEGO Fabergé egg with a sweet story behind it. While totally different, it was just a pretty!