Empire Strikes Back (Imperio Contraataca) 10-back Chewbacca
After Lili Ledy's license to produce its unique line of 12 inch dolls expired around 1979, the company produced no Star Wars items until 1982 when it released 10 Kenner figures: Leia Bespin, Luke Bespin, Han Hoth, Snowtrooper, Rebel Soldier, Darth Vader, C-3PO, R2-D2, Chewbacca, and Yoda. Interestingly, Han Hoth, Snowtrooper, and Rebel Soldier were not released in Lili Ledy's subsequent Return of the Jedi line.

The card art for the Imperio Contraataca line was generic for each figure, with a sticker on the name plate indicating which figure was packaqed on the card. Unique to the Lili Ledy line, a small portion of the artwork shown on this poster was used for the card art. Originally painted by Noriyoshi Ohrai for the Japanese ESB campaign, this artwork was also used in other countries, including Mexico.

I heard rumour of these ESB figures nearly 10 years ago, but no Mexican collectors had an example, and the stories were all based on childhood recollections. The description of a generic card with the Falcon on it were consistent so it seemed likely they were made, but it wasn't until about three years ago that I first saw an image of one of these posted on Mexican website. I have only heard of a small number of cardbacks being found since then, as well as some mock-ups for a proposed second series of ESB figures that was never released.

Description by: Todd Chamberlain
Photo: Todd Chamberlain
From the collection of: Todd Chamberlain
Country:Mexico
Film:Empire Strikes Back
Licensee:Lili Ledy
Year:1982
Category:Toys / Action Figure Related / Small Action Figures (Licensed)


  


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