The Haunting New Figure 28th July – Development Sketches & Pose Exploration

Every original collectible begins with a sketch. Before any digital sculpting or prototype work starts, the character must first find its identity on paper. For The Haunting, the development process focused on refining both the character's transformation and the poses that would best capture its eerie presence.

Character Development Through Sketches

The early concept sketches explore the gradual evolution of the Lantern Bearer. Rather than creating a traditional ghost or skeleton, the goal was to tell the story of a man slowly consumed by time and the supernatural.

The progression moves through several stages:

• A Victorian gentleman with a composed appearance.
• A weathered traveler showing the effects of centuries of wandering.
• A partially decayed figure caught between life and death.
• A fully skeletal apparition that has become The Haunting.

Keeping the signature top hat, long coat, and lantern staff throughout each stage preserves a recognizable silhouette while allowing the face and body to evolve dramatically.

Exploring Dynamic Poses

A memorable figure is defined not only by its sculpt but also by its pose. Multiple sketches were created to determine how The Haunting should be presented.

Standing Sentinel

The upright pose conveys quiet authority. Holding the lantern staff close to the body creates a calm yet unsettling presence, as though the figure has been waiting in silence for centuries.

Searching the Darkness

A forward-leaning stance with one hand extended suggests the character is searching for someone whose name has already been called. This pose introduces movement while maintaining an eerie, deliberate pace.

The Watchful Rest

One concept shows The Haunting seated with the lantern resting beside him. Rather than appearing relaxed, the pose gives the impression of endless patience—as if he has all the time in the world to wait for his next encounter.

Refining the Lantern Staff

The lantern quickly became the centerpiece of the design. Inspired by Victorian lamplighters, the suspended lantern creates a distinctive profile unlike a traditional walking staff or scythe.

Future sculpt development will explore:

• Hanging chains with realistic weight.
• Weathered metal textures.
• A ghostly blue glow within the lantern.
• Smoke and mist effects surrounding the base.

Building a Strong Silhouette

One of the primary goals during concept development was creating a figure that is instantly recognizable from a distance.

Key design elements include:

• A tall Victorian top hat.
• A long, tattered overcoat.
• Flowing hair framing the skeletal face.
• An asymmetrical lantern suspended from a staff.
• A subtle forward lean that suggests slow, purposeful movement.

These elements work together to give The Haunting a unique profile that stands apart from more traditional horror characters.

Looking Ahead

These sketches are an important milestone in the creation of The Haunting, but they are only the beginning. The next stages of development will refine the anatomy, costume details, lantern design, and final display pose before moving into digital sculpting and prototype production.

At Jäger Hobby, every concept begins with pencil and paper, where storytelling and silhouette come together to shape a collectible that is both visually striking and rich in character.