Original “Titanic Cherub” From James Cameron’s Epic Film Heads to Auction December 9 & 10

One of the most recognizable and beloved set pieces from James Cameron’s Titanic heads to auction on December 9 &10 —the original Grand Staircase Cherub, seen in multiple scenes of the 1997 blockbuster, including the pivotal moment when Jack and Rose meet in front of the First Class Dining Room and the climactic moment when the Atlantic Ocean bursts through the skylight and floods the staircase, and cherub.

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The ornate fixture—crafted for the full-scale recreation of Titanic’s Grand Staircase—was gifted by the production to Martin Biallas, CEO of SEE Global Entertainment, whose immersive exhibitions have brought the world’s most famous ship to millions of fans. It now resurfaces as a rare offering in Heritage Auctions’ Entertainment & Music Memorabilia Signature Auction (Sale #7433)

The piece arrives at auction just months after another Titanic prop—the wall panel on which Jack and Rose famously floated—sold for over $700,000, signaling a surging appetite for iconic cinema artifacts. Early estimates suggest the “Titanic Cherub” could fetch more.

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The cherub appears repeatedly throughout Titanic, most notably during Rose DeWitt Bukater’s descent of the Grand Staircase—a moment that became one of the most reproduced stills in modern cinema. Its image can be spotted in film stills, promotional photography, behind-the-scenes footage, and even theme park recreations. It is synonymous with Cameron’s obsessive detail of the ill-fated ocean liner.

“James Cameron and his team created a masterpiece in every detail, and this piece embodies that artistry. I’ve been honored to steward it. Now it’s time for someone else to own this treasure,” said Biallas.

“This is a marquee piece from one of the most influential films ever,” said Brian Chanes, Senior Director of Hollywood/Entertainment at Heritage Auctions. “Demand for screen-used Titanic artifacts is at an historic high. The sale of the ‘wall panel’ underscored that momentum.”

“This cherub isn’t just a film prop—it’s part of the global mythology of Titanic. It represents how the story of Titanic continues to evolve, inspire, and fascinate new generations,” said David Perry, maritime historian.

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