The LEGO Dinosaur Fossils: Tyrannosaurus Rex set, available exclusively at the LEGO Store, is a visually stunning and ambitious build that captures the imagination of dinosaur enthusiasts and LEGO fans alike. Upon first glance, you're struck by its size; this model is a 1:12 scale replica of a real T-Rex, making it an imposing addition to any collection.
LEGO Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: Tyrannosaurus rex
$249.99 at LEGO Store
A closer inspection reveals the meticulous attention to detail: the ribs are constructed at varying lengths to create a realistic rib "cage," while the use of dark-colored bricks enhances the shadow effect, highlighting the light-colored "bone" bricks. Despite its complex appearance, the set is surprisingly easy to assemble, making the intricate design even more impressive.
We Build LEGO Dinosaur Fossils: Tyrannosaurus Rex
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As a child fascinated by dinosaurs, I recall being captivated by the towering T-Rex skeleton at the American Museum of Natural History. This fascination was reignited years later when I read Ray Bradbury's "A Sound of Thunder," a sci-fi short story that vividly described the awe-inspiring presence of the T-Rex:
"It came on great oiled, resilient, striding legs. It towered thirty feet above half of the trees, a great evil god, folding its delicate watchmaker's claws close to its oily reptilian chest. Each lower leg was a piston, a thousand pounds of white bone, sunk in thick ropes of muscle, sheathed over in a gleam of pebbled skin like the mail of a terrible warrior."
Like many of my generation, I grew up with the image of the T-Rex standing upright, its tail dragging on the ground:
However, scientific understanding has evolved, and we now know that the T-Rex stood with its spine parallel to the ground, using its tail as a counterbalance to its head:
The above image is of "Sue," the most complete T-Rex skeleton ever found at 90%. Discovered by paleontologist Sue Hendrickson in 1990, this find revolutionized our understanding of the T-Rex's anatomy. The small bones along the belly, known as *gastralia*, were initially omitted from public displays because their function was unknown. We now understand that these bones supported the T-Rex's breathing and contributed to its hefty build.
This depiction from the 1993 film *Jurassic Park* reflects the outdated perception of dinosaurs. The T-Rex here is leaner and more upright than the accurate horizontal position we recognize today. Thanks to the discovery of the gastralia, we now estimate the T-Rex to weigh nine to ten tons, with a substantial belly close to the ground.
The most updated and accurate depiction of a T-Rex, based on Sue's bones, showcases a chubbier and more realistic figure:
The LEGO Dinosaur Fossils: Tyrannosaurus Rex set reflects this updated scientific understanding by presenting the T-Rex in a horizontal position, though it does not include the gastralia. The model suggests a "barrel-chested" appearance, more in line with current findings than the lean predator of popular culture. The forward positioning of the arms aligns with the latest display of Sue at the Field Museum in Chicago.
Comprising 25 sealed plastic bags, the assembly begins with the black stand, followed by the backbone, which is attached to vertical supports. The rest of the model, including the neck, legs, hips, ribs, arms, tail, and head, is built and connected in sequence. The legs and torso are fixed, while the arms, head, and tail are adjustable, allowing for dynamic posing.
Stretching nearly three-and-a-half feet from tip to tail, this model requires ample space. It commands attention and is best displayed on a wide, flat surface such as a dresser or coffee table rather than a crowded shelf.
Officially part of the LEGO Jurassic Park franchise, the set includes two minifigures of Alan Grant and Ellie Sattler from the original film, along with a Jurassic Park-branded placard. However, the inclusion of these elements feels somewhat forced, as the set's name and primary focus are on the dinosaur itself. LEGO even provides an option to detach the minifigure and placard display, highlighting the set's versatility and the fact that it stands well on its own.
Despite the franchise tie-in, the grandeur and detailed craftsmanship of this set are what truly sell it. Much like the LEGO Titanic build, this T-Rex set transcends mere movie memorabilia, offering a sophisticated and engaging build experience.
LEGO Dinosaur Fossils: Tyrannosaurus Rex, Set #10335, retails for $269.99 and comprises 3011 pieces. It is available exclusively at the LEGO Store.
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