Pythor P. Chumsworth
njo041 · Ninjago
Rise of the Snakes · 2012 (First release in the 9449 Ultra Sonic Raider set)
Figure ID
njo041
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2012 (First release in the 9449 Ultra Sonic Raider set)
Rarity
Rare; this specific purple and white 'original' version is much harder to find than the later translucent or bleached versions.
Head
Unique molded white snake head with an elongated neck. Features purple tribal patterns on top, red snake eyes, and a light blue jewel/circle printed on the forehead.
Torso
Black torso with intricate printing including gold scales, purple accents, and a red center crest containing Ninjago-style script. Features black arms and hands.
Legs
N/A; this figure uses a unique black coiled snake tail piece (part 98123px1) instead of standard legs, featuring gold and purple printing to match the torso.
Accessories
Usually comes with a silver Fangblade or a staff, though no accessories are present in the provided image.
Color Scheme
Primary colors are White, Black, and Purple, with metallic Gold and Red accents.
Printing Details
Extremely high-quality pad printing on the molded head, torso (front and back), and the curved surface of the tail piece. Alignment on the neck-to-torso transition is a key quality marker.
Variants
Includes njo129 (Translucent Purple Ghost version) and njo492 (Legacy version with a shorter neck/different mold). The njo041 is the most iconic and valued by collectors.
Condition Notes
The long neck piece is prone to 'lean' over time. Look for stress marks at the torso connection point and paint rubbing on the high points of the head pattern.
Estimated Value
Used: $50 - $75 USD; New/Mint: $100+ USD. Pricing fluctuates based on the condition of the neck-to-torso 'clutch' and the crispness of the head printing.
Price (New)
Released in set 9449 ($79.99 MSRP in 2012). It was the exclusive antagonist figure for that set.
Compatible Sets
9449 Ultra Sonic Raider (2012).
Character Background
Pythor is the last surviving member of the Anacondrai tribe. He is a master manipulator who united the five Serpentine tribes to awaken the Great Devourer.
Design Notes
Innovative for 2012, Pythor was one of the first figures to significantly break the standard minifigure silhouette using both a custom head/neck mold and a tail base.
Similar Minifigures
Skales (njo035), Acidicus (njo067), and Fangtom (njo049) from the same Serpentine sub-theme.
Collectibility
High; he is a fan-favorite villain. Early Ninjago figures, especially Serpentine generals, have seen significant value appreciation.
History
Launched during Ninjago's second wave. This design established the 'Anacondrai' aesthetic which returned in later seasons with modified molds.
Interesting Facts
Pythor is named after the 'python'. In the show, he is much larger than other minifigures; the elongated neck piece was LEGO's way of showing his height while remaining compatible with torso studs.
Display Suggestions
Display at the center of a Serpentine army. Use a clear 1x2 brick behind the tail for extra stability if the torso connection is loose.
Modification Potential
The tail piece is popular among MOC builders for creating custom nagas, medusas, or other serpentine fantasy creatures.
Overall Assessment
A top-tier collectible for Ninjago fans. Its unique silhouette and status as a primary antagonist make it a standout piece in any collection.