''Ben-Hur'' original set design artwork for the 1959 epic MGM film. Set is for a Roman cell and corridor, as evidenced by two separate illustrations matted to a board, both with various scale notations. Labeled on verso, ''Ben Hur Cell & Corridor''. The film's production included 300 sets scattered over 148 acres in Italy, so expansive in scope, they became an instant tourist attraction as the largest sets ever created. The MGM Art Department produced more than 15,000 sketches for the film; the hard work paid off as the department won an Academy Award for Best Art Direction (Color). Rendered in pencil and gouache on illustration board, with architecture angles and scale notations to each drawing. Certain notations are in Italian as the sets were of course built in Italy. Measures 16.75'' x 10.5'' with pinholes at each corner, else near fine.