Pinball Backglass Middle Earth as Wall Lamp from Atari Inc., 1977

Details

Description

This piece is the original top light panel, also known as a translite or backglass, from the "Middle Earth" pinball … Read more This piece is the original top light panel, also known as a translite or backglass, from the "Middle Earth" pinball machine manufactured by Atari (Inc., 1977). These graphic panels were located in the illuminated upper section—the head area—of the machines and created the thematic visuals of the respective game. What makes this translite special is that it displays one of the most characteristic Atari graphics of this era: a vibrant scene with fantasy motifs in bright neon greens, reds, and blues.

Atari pinball machines deviate from the norm in both design and style. The front glass of their pinball machines displays the entire graphic, creating a unified image so that the display appears before us without any cutouts. An aesthetically pleasing and colorful front glass that can be a magnificent accessory in any interior. Since very few examples of the "Middle Earth" pinball machine have survived, the Translite model is in itself a highly sought-after collector's item with decorative value and significant importance to arcade history. "Middle Earth" was Atari's second pinball machine, marking the company's entry into the world of video games.

The iconic Atari logo and the inscription "© Atari Inc. 1977" are clearly legible in the lower right corner, identifying original models from that era.

Developer/Manufacturer
ATARI Inc. (USA), one of the most important companies in the gaming industry of the 1970s, which fundamentally shaped the history of arcade and video game technology.

The designer of the "Atari Middle Earth" pinball machine (1978) was Gary Slater, while George Opperman was responsible for the visual design.

Date of Origin

1977 (Original, contemporary production – the marking is visible on the bezel.)

Style
Classic 1970s arcade graphics
Pop culture fantasy illustration
Vibrant, high-contrast colors
Stylized, dynamic character composition
Strong neon effect, retro gaming design aesthetic

Material
Original translite bezel (printed, translucent plastic)
with metal frame and contemporary framing
Made for installation in a pinball machine (illuminated back panel)

Features
Original Atari production, marked and dated
Rare, decorative, large-format panel
Highly sought after by collectors
Very spectacular when hung and illuminated
Complete, undamaged graphic surface
Authentic metal frame

Condition
Excellent collector's condition
No cracks on the bezel
Colors are vibrant
Labels are legible This piece has an attribution mark,
I am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
issues arising from misattribution,
European Plug (up to 250V).The wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less