Representations of the bio-android Cell and the cyborg Android 18, regularly crafted from supplies like resin or PVC, are collectible figures depicting characters from the Dragon Ball franchise. These likenesses goal to seize the aesthetic and traits of the characters as they seem within the anime and manga, typically showcasing iconic poses or key moments from the storyline. An instance can be a determine of Cell in his Excellent Kind executing a devastating assault or Android 18 in a assured stance.
The enchantment of those character depictions lies of their connection to a preferred and long-running collection. For fans, buying representations of those characters provides a tangible hyperlink to a beloved fictional universe. They function ornamental items, funding objects, and expressions of fandom. The provision and high quality of this stuff have developed alongside the franchise’s enduring success, reflecting altering manufacturing strategies and collector preferences.
The next sections will delve into the assorted elements of amassing and appreciating these representations, inspecting elements resembling materials high quality, sculpting element, rarity, and their significance throughout the broader context of Dragon Ball memorabilia.
1. Sculpting Element
Sculpting element is a paramount consider figuring out the general high quality and worth of representations depicting Cell and Android 18. The accuracy and intricacy with which the sculptor captures the characters’ bodily options, musculature, and clothes straight influence the realism and visible enchantment of the completed product. For instance, a trustworthy recreation of Cell’s segmented carapace or Android 18’s meticulously rendered facial options enhances the viewer’s immersion and appreciation of the piece. Poorly executed sculpting, conversely, may end up in disproportionate anatomy, inaccurate particulars, and a diminished sense of authenticity, thereby devaluing the merchandise within the eyes of collectors.
The extent of sculpting element can even affect the perceived characterization of Cell and Android 18. A illustration of Cell exhibiting sharp, menacing options reinforces his villainous nature, whereas a softer, extra humanized depiction of Android 18 would possibly emphasize her evolving character arc throughout the collection. The sculptor’s decisions, subsequently, contribute to the narrative influence of the illustration. Producers that put money into expert sculptors and make use of superior strategies, resembling digital sculpting, usually produce higher-quality objects that command larger costs and higher collector curiosity.
In abstract, sculpting element is just not merely an aesthetic consideration however a elementary element affecting the constancy, characterization, and worth of representations of Cell and Android 18. Understanding its significance permits collectors to discern high quality and make knowledgeable selections, appreciating the artistry and craftsmanship concerned in bringing these fictional characters to life in three-dimensional type. The presence or absence of positive sculpting dictates whether or not a illustration turns into a sought-after collectible or a disregarded imitation.
2. Paint Software
The appliance of paint to representations of Cell and Android 18 is a vital determinant of visible high quality and collectibility. Exact and nuanced paintwork enhances the sculpted particulars, bringing the characters to life and precisely reflecting their look within the supply materials. Poor paint utility, characterised by inconsistencies, smudging, or inaccurate colours, detracts from the general aesthetic, diminishes realism, and negatively impacts perceived worth. For example, if Cell’s attribute inexperienced hue is uneven or lacks the right shading, the general influence of the illustration suffers. Equally, flawed utility on Android 18’s hair or clothes can detract from the character’s distinctive visible parts.
Paint utility contributes on to the perceived high quality and authenticity of the illustration. Excessive-end producers make use of strategies resembling airbrushing, masking, and layering to attain complicated gradients, practical textures, and correct shade matching. Examples embody the refined shading on Cell’s carapace to create depth and dimension, or the exact highlighting on Android 18’s clothes to simulate material texture. Moreover, the sturdiness of the paint end is essential; high-quality paints resist chipping, fading, and discoloration over time, preserving the worth and visible enchantment of the illustration. Conversely, inferior paints are vulnerable to break, compromising the integrity of the collectible.
In conclusion, the standard of paint utility is just not merely a beauty consideration however an integral element impacting the worth, authenticity, and visible influence of representations of Cell and Android 18. Cautious consideration to element, the usage of high-quality supplies, and expert utility strategies are important for creating representations that meet the requirements of collectors and precisely painting the characters from the Dragon Ball universe. The presence of meticulous paint utility elevates a illustration from a mere imitation to a prized collectible.
3. Materials High quality
Materials high quality considerably influences the sturdiness, aesthetic enchantment, and worth of representations depicting Cell and Android 18. The choice of applicable supplies impacts the longevity of the merchandise, the constancy of element copy, and the perceived premium of the ultimate product. The selection of supplies is an important facet in figuring out the collectibility and market worth of those representations.
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Resin Composition and Sturdiness
Resin, a typical materials, varies in composition. Greater-quality resins supply elevated resistance to influence, temperature fluctuations, and UV harm, preserving the integrity of intricate particulars over time. Decrease-grade resins could also be liable to cracking, yellowing, or deformation. For instance, a Cell illustration sculpted from a sturdy resin is much less prone to exhibit degradation in comparison with one constructed from a less expensive, much less secure various. This sturdiness is a key issue for collectors looking for lasting worth.
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PVC Grade and Flexibility
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one other prevalent materials, providing flexibility and ease of molding. The grade of PVC dictates its susceptibility to deformation, bending, and breakage. Greater grades preserve their form and structural integrity, whereas decrease grades might exhibit undesirable warping or harm below stress. An Android 18 illustration constructed from high-grade PVC is best geared up to resist dealing with and show with out dropping its type or element.
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Paint Adhesion and End
The flexibility of paint to stick to the underlying materials is straight associated to materials high quality. Easy, non-porous surfaces present an optimum base for paint utility, making certain constant protection and resistance to chipping or peeling. Porous or improperly ready surfaces might end in uneven paint distribution and compromised adhesion. Consequently, even probably the most intricate sculpting element may be diminished by poor paint adhesion ensuing from insufficient materials preparation.
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Weight and Density Traits
The burden and density of the fabric contribute to the perceived high quality and stability of representations. Denser supplies usually present a extra substantial really feel, conveying a way of premium craftsmanship. Moreover, a balanced weight distribution is crucial for making certain stability, stopping the illustration from simply toppling over. The selection of fabric considerably influences these weight and density traits, contributing to each the tactile and visible elements of the ultimate product.
These sides of fabric high quality underscore their vital function within the manufacturing and analysis of representations depicting Cell and Android 18. The choice of applicable supplies, coupled with meticulous craftsmanship, contributes on to the longevity, aesthetic enchantment, and perceived worth of those collectibles. Collectors typically prioritize materials high quality as a key indicator of authenticity and long-term funding potential.
4. Scale Accuracy
Scale accuracy is a vital consider figuring out the aesthetic concord and total collectibility of representations depicting Cell and Android 18. When representations lack appropriate proportions relative to one another and to established dimension references from the Dragon Ball collection, they diminish the immersive expertise and should detract from the general worth for collectors looking for trustworthy renditions.
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Consistency Inside a Assortment
Sustaining constant scale permits representations of Cell and Android 18 to be displayed alongside different characters from the collection in a visually coherent method. If a Cell illustration is considerably bigger or smaller than an Android 18 illustration, regardless of being offered as comparable in dimension throughout the supply materials, the ensuing show can seem disjointed and detract from the meant aesthetic. Correct scale ensures that every one characters preserve their correct relative proportions.
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Compatibility With Present Strains
Many collectors construct their collections round particular strains or manufacturers. Adherence to established scale requirements inside these strains is essential for integration. A illustration that deviates considerably from the established scale of a specific product line could also be incompatible with different objects within the assortment, limiting its show choices and probably lowering its market worth. For example, representations meant to enrich a standardized mannequin package collection require exact scale adherence.
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Faithfulness to Supply Materials
Scale accuracy displays the diploma to which representations faithfully seize the relative sizes of Cell and Android 18 as depicted within the Dragon Ball anime and manga. Deviations from these established proportions can distort the characters’ bodily presence and influence the general impression of authenticity. Actual scale matching is particularly necessary for followers looking for a direct correlation between the collectible and the supply materials.
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Affect on Show and Presentation
The size of representations straight influences their suitability for show inside particular areas or preparations. Outsized or undersized representations might not match harmoniously inside a show case or on a shelf, limiting the collector’s capability to showcase their objects successfully. Scale accuracy ensures that representations may be seamlessly built-in into varied show configurations, enhancing their visible influence and collectibility.
In abstract, scale accuracy is a elementary ingredient that impacts the visible coherence, compatibility, authenticity, and show potential of representations depicting Cell and Android 18. Collectors prioritize scale accuracy as a key indicator of high quality and faithfulness to the Dragon Ball universe, making it a major determinant of worth and collectibility.
5. Character Pose
The character pose is a vital ingredient in representations of Cell and Android 18, straight influencing the narrative communicated by the illustration and its enchantment to collectors. A well-chosen pose captures the essence of the character, conveying their character, energy, or a major second from the Dragon Ball collection. The pose chosen can both elevate the illustration to a sought-after collectible or diminish its influence, rendering it much less fascinating. The choice of an iconic motion pose, resembling Cell executing a Kamehameha or Android 18 getting ready to strike, instantly attracts consideration and enhances the dynamic vitality of the illustration. Conversely, a static or awkward pose can fail to seize the character’s dynamism and end in a much less partaking visible.
The pose additionally impacts the perceived scale and presence of the illustration. A dynamic pose could make a determine seem bigger and extra imposing, whereas a passive pose might diminish its visible influence. The complexity of the pose influences the sculpting and manufacturing processes; extra intricate poses require higher ability to execute precisely, probably rising manufacturing prices and the ultimate worth. Moreover, the pose influences the steadiness and show choices. Poses that require elaborate bases or helps would possibly current challenges for collectors with restricted show area. The ‘Excellent Kind’ Cell determine, posed mid-energy blast, offers an instance of a personality’s energy being accentuated via pose. Equally, Android 18’s assured, arms-crossed stance represents her perspective and power. These dynamic poses contribute considerably to the general enchantment and worth.
In conclusion, the character pose is intrinsically linked to the success of representations of Cell and Android 18. It influences the narrative influence, visible enchantment, and collectibility. The right choice and execution of the pose are important for capturing the character’s essence and making a illustration that resonates with fans and collectors. The challenges in hanging a steadiness between creative expression, dynamic pose, and manufacturing feasibility end in diverse ranges of desirability and worth within the collectibles market.
6. Base Design
Base design, an often-overlooked ingredient, considerably contributes to the general presentation, stability, and storytelling capabilities of representations depicting Cell and Android 18. It serves as greater than only a basis; it enhances the visible narrative and sensible performance of those collectibles.
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Stability and Assist
The first operate of a illustration’s base is to supply stability, stopping it from toppling over and sustaining harm. Efficient base design considers the middle of gravity of the determine, using supplies and shapes that counteract potential imbalances. A large, flat base constructed from heavy materials, for instance, ensures stability for dynamic poses. Poorly designed bases danger harm to each the illustration and its environment.
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Contextual Storytelling
Bases can prolong the narrative past the determine itself. A base depicting a cracked battlefield or a destroyed cityscape associated to the occasions within the Dragon Ball collection offers further context and enhances the storytelling facet of the illustration. Such particulars immerse the viewer, including one other layer of appreciation to the collectible. A plain, unadorned base provides little to no contextual data.
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Aesthetic Integration
The design of the bottom ought to complement the aesthetic model of the Cell or Android 18 illustration. Seamless integration of colours, textures, and shapes creates a cohesive visible expertise. A base with sharp, angular edges would possibly swimsuit Cells menacing look, whereas a glossy, minimalist design may complement Android 18’s extra refined aesthetic. A mismatched or poorly executed base can detract from the general visible enchantment, undermining the representations high quality.
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Materials Concord and Worth
The supplies used within the base ought to harmonize with the determine’s supplies. Excessive-quality supplies improve the perceived worth, whereas cost-cutting measures are sometimes evident in cheaper bases. A base using clear or metallic parts would possibly create visible curiosity and mirror the character’s talents or technological origins. The perceived total high quality is considerably influenced by this concord.
In conclusion, the bottom design of Cell and Android 18 representations is just not merely an afterthought however an integral element influencing stability, narrative context, aesthetic cohesion, and perceived worth. Properly-executed base designs elevate the general high quality and collectibility of those representations, including depth and enhancing the visible influence of the figures themselves.
7. Rarity Components
The shortage of representations depicting Cell and Android 18 is a major determinant of their market worth and desirability amongst collectors. A number of elements contribute to the rarity of this stuff, every enjoying an important function in establishing their perceived exclusivity and commanding worth factors.
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Restricted Manufacturing Runs
A major driver of rarity is the deliberate restriction of manufacturing portions. Producers might produce a restricted variety of a specific illustration to create a way of exclusivity and drive demand. For instance, a particular Cell illustration launched as a conference unique with a manufacturing run of solely 500 items immediately turns into extra wanted than a mass-produced merchandise. The shortage created by restricted manufacturing straight interprets to elevated worth within the secondary market.
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Unique Distribution Channels
The channel via which a illustration is initially offered can considerably influence its rarity. Objects solely accessible at particular occasions, retailers, or areas typically change into extremely fascinating as a consequence of restricted accessibility. An Android 18 illustration offered solely at a Japanese anime conference, for example, requires worldwide journey or specialised import providers to accumulate, thus elevating its perceived rarity and worth for collectors exterior of Japan.
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Discontinued Fashions
As soon as a producer ceases manufacturing of a specific illustration, it turns into more and more scarce over time, significantly if it was initially common. Discontinued fashions of Cell or Android 18 might change into tough to seek out in mint situation, driving up their worth as demand outstrips provide. The passage of time, coupled with the danger of harm or loss, additional contributes to the rising rarity of those discontinued objects.
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Variant Editions
Variant editions, that includes slight alterations in shade schemes, packaging, or included equipment, introduce one other layer of complexity to rarity. These variations could also be created for promotional functions or as limited-edition exclusives. A Cell illustration with a metallic paint end, launched as a variant of the usual version, instantly acquires elevated worth as a consequence of its distinctive look and restricted availability. Collectors typically hunt down these variants to finish their units, additional driving up demand.
These rarity elements, appearing in live performance, form the panorama of the representations depicting Cell and Android 18. Understanding these influences permits collectors to navigate the market extra successfully, discerning real shortage from synthetic inflation and making knowledgeable selections about their acquisitions. The interaction between manufacturing limitations, distribution channels, discontinuation, and variant editions collectively determines the desirability and worth of those collectibles.
8. Packaging Situation
The situation of the unique packaging considerably impacts the valuation and collectibility of representations depicting Cell and Android 18. Intact and well-preserved packaging signifies cautious dealing with and storage, suggesting that the merchandise itself has been shielded from environmental harm and bodily put on. Conversely, broken or lacking packaging diminishes perceived worth, elevating issues about potential defects or mishandling of the illustration. The packaging serves as a certificates of authenticity and completeness, offering assurance to potential patrons. A mint-condition field, free from tears, dents, or fading, assures patrons that the content material inside is probably going in related situation. For instance, a Cell illustration from a restricted manufacturing run retains a considerably larger worth when accompanied by its authentic, undamaged packaging, in comparison with the identical illustration offered unfastened or with a severely compromised field. This distinction can signify a considerable proportion of the merchandise’s total value.
Packaging’s influence extends past mere aesthetics. Many representations are offered as “Mint in Field” (MIB) or “New in Field” (NIB), the place the packaging stays sealed. This unopened state assures patrons that the illustration has not been displayed or tampered with, enhancing its collectibility. Nonetheless, even opened packaging performs a job. Full packaging, together with interior trays, inserts, and any accompanying promotional supplies, demonstrates that every one authentic parts are current. Absence of those parts suggests incompleteness, probably reducing market worth. Moreover, the packaging typically accommodates producer particulars, launch dates, and licensing data which might be essential for verifying the authenticity of the illustration, additional emphasizing its significance.
In abstract, the situation of the packaging of representations depicting Cell and Android 18 is just not an ancillary concern however an integral facet of their total worth and collectibility. It serves as a tangible indicator of care, authenticity, and completeness, influencing purchaser confidence and market demand. Collectors and buyers ought to prioritize packaging situation alongside the illustration itself, recognizing its vital function in figuring out long-term worth. Neglecting packaging situation might result in underestimation of asset worth or acquisition of an merchandise of diminished high quality.
9. Authenticity Verification
The method of authenticity verification is paramount within the realm of collectibles, significantly regarding representations of Cell and Android 18. Given the prevalence of counterfeit objects, establishing the genuineness of a illustration is essential for making certain worth and preserving the integrity of collections.
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Licensing and Markings
Official licensing from the Dragon Ball franchise is a major indicator of authenticity. Legit representations usually show logos and copyright notices from entities resembling Toei Animation or Chicken Studio. The absence of those markings, or the presence of misspelled names and unofficial logos, indicators potential inauthenticity. Inspecting markings on the illustration itself and its packaging is an preliminary step in verification.
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Manufacturing High quality and Supplies
Genuine representations usually exhibit superior manufacturing high quality and make the most of high-grade supplies. Detailed sculpting, exact paint utility, and the usage of sturdy resins or PVCs are attribute of real objects. Counterfeit representations typically show inferior craftsmanship, characterised by tough edges, uneven paint, and the usage of low-quality supplies. Evaluating the bodily traits of a illustration towards identified requirements is a invaluable technique of verification.
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Packaging Particulars and Inserts
Unique packaging accommodates particular particulars that may help in verifying authenticity. Holographic stickers, distinctive serial numbers, and professionally printed inserts are widespread options of reputable objects. Counterfeit packaging might lack these particulars, or the print high quality could also be substandard. Scrutinizing the packaging for inconsistencies or deviations from identified genuine examples is crucial.
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Vendor Status and Provenance
Buying representations from respected distributors or established collectors offers a level of assurance concerning authenticity. Established distributors have a vested curiosity in sustaining their fame and are much less prone to supply counterfeit objects. Acquiring details about the merchandise’s provenance, together with its authentic supply and possession historical past, can additional bolster confidence in its genuineness.
The multifaceted strategy of authenticity verification, encompassing licensing scrutiny, materials analysis, packaging evaluation, and vendor evaluation, is indispensable for collectors of representations depicting Cell and Android 18. Diligence in these areas mitigates the danger of buying counterfeit objects, defending investments and preserving the worth of genuine collectibles throughout the Dragon Ball fandom.
Regularly Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning the acquisition, valuation, and upkeep of character representations from the Dragon Ball collection, particularly these depicting Cell and Android 18.
Query 1: What supplies are usually employed within the creation of character representations depicting Cell and Android 18?
The commonest supplies utilized are resin and PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Resin is regularly employed for higher-end representations as a consequence of its capability to seize intricate particulars, whereas PVC is used for mass-produced objects, providing a steadiness of sturdiness and cost-effectiveness. Occasional representations might incorporate die-cast metallic or material parts.
Query 2: How does the size of a illustration influence its worth and collectibility?
Scale consistency is a vital issue for collectors looking for uniformity inside their shows. Representations adhering to established scale requirements inside a specific product line or collection are typically extra fascinating. Inconsistent scaling can detract from the visible coherence of a group and should negatively influence the merchandise’s worth.
Query 3: What are the important thing indicators of authenticity when buying representations depicting Cell and Android 18?
Authenticity may be verified via a number of elements, together with official licensing markings (copyright notices), superior manufacturing high quality (detailed sculpting and paint utility), authentic packaging with holograms or serial numbers, and the fame of the seller or vendor. Discrepancies in these areas might point out a counterfeit merchandise.
Query 4: How ought to representations be correctly saved to stop harm and preserve their worth?
Splendid storage situations contain a climate-controlled atmosphere with low humidity and safety from direct daylight. Representations ought to be stored in dust-free enclosures, resembling show circumstances, or of their authentic packaging. Correct dealing with and avoidance of utmost temperatures are important for preserving the merchandise’s situation.
Query 5: What elements affect the market worth of representations depicting Cell and Android 18?
Market worth is influenced by a mixture of things, together with rarity (restricted manufacturing runs or unique releases), situation (each of the illustration and its packaging), authenticity (verified licensing and manufacturing high quality), character pose, and total aesthetic enchantment. Demand throughout the collector group additionally performs a major function.
Query 6: How can potential patrons shield themselves from buying counterfeit representations?
Patrons can mitigate the danger of buying counterfeit objects by conducting thorough analysis, scrutinizing product listings for inconsistencies, buying from respected sources, and requesting detailed photos or documentation. A cautious strategy and knowledgeable decision-making are important for avoiding fraudulent transactions.
These FAQs present a basis for understanding key issues when buying representations depicting Cell and Android 18. Diligence in analysis and cautious evaluation are essential for knowledgeable amassing.
The following part will discover the varied vary of show choices accessible for these collectibles.
Important Ideas for Collectors
This part offers actionable insights for discerning collectors looking for to accumulate, preserve, and admire representations of Cell and Android 18. These pointers goal to optimize funding and improve assortment longevity.
Tip 1: Prioritize Authenticity Verification: Given the prevalence of counterfeit objects, set up genuineness earlier than acquisition. Scrutinize licensing marks, assess materials high quality, and look at packaging particulars for inconsistencies.
Tip 2: Assess Situation with Stringency: Consider the state of each the illustration and its packaging. Mint situation objects command larger worth, reflecting cautious dealing with and preservation. Study for paint flaws, joint stability, and packaging integrity.
Tip 3: Examine Rarity Components: Analysis manufacturing numbers, distribution channels, and variant editions. Restricted manufacturing runs and unique releases improve shortage and drive collectibility.
Tip 4: Optimize Show Circumstances: Implement environmental controls. Decrease publicity to direct daylight, preserve low humidity ranges, and implement dust-free storage options to mitigate degradation.
Tip 5: Doc Acquisitions and Provenance: Keep complete data of every acquisition, together with buy dates, vendor data, and provenance particulars. This documentation is crucial for insurance coverage functions and potential future gross sales.
Tip 6: Periodically Examine and Keep: Recurrently look at representations for indicators of degradation. Implement mild cleansing procedures to take away mud and contaminants, avoiding harsh chemical substances or abrasive supplies.
Tip 7: Analysis Market Developments: Keep knowledgeable about market values and rising tendencies throughout the collector group. Monitoring public sale outcomes, vendor listings, and collector boards offers insights into shifting demand and pricing dynamics.
Adherence to those pointers minimizes danger, maximizes asset worth, and ensures the long-term preservation of invaluable representations depicting Cell and Android 18.
The next concluding remarks summarize the important thing insights offered all through this text.
Conclusion
The examination of cell and android 18 statues reveals a fancy interaction of creative benefit, market dynamics, and fan tradition. Components resembling sculpting precision, materials high quality, paint utility, scale accuracy, rarity, packaging situation, and authenticated provenance collectively decide the worth and desirability of those collectibles. Understanding these parts is crucial for knowledgeable acquisition and accountable assortment administration.
Critical collectors should train diligence in verifying authenticity and assessing situation to mitigate danger and protect long-term worth. Adherence to greatest practices in storage and upkeep additional ensures the longevity of those investments. The continued appreciation of cell and android 18 statues hinges on a sustained dedication to preserving their integrity and recognizing their significance throughout the broader context of Dragon Ball memorabilia.
