Laval - Lion Tribe, Cape
loc001 · Legends of Chima
Lion Tribe · 2013, debuted in the first wave of the Legends of Chima theme.
Figure ID
loc001
Theme
Legends of Chima
Year Released
2013, debuted in the first wave of the Legends of Chima theme.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. While he was the main character and included in multiple sets, this specific early version is becoming harder to find in mint condition.
Head
Double-sided Tan head with Lion facial features; one side has a smirk/grin, the other a determined 'battle' expression. Topped with a molded Lion Headgear/Mane in Bright Orange with Dark Blue markings.
Torso
Tan torso with detailed printing of a Lion chest/abs, a Dark Blue harness featuring a 'Chi' orb in the center, and a golden lion-head belt. Arms are Tan with White hands.
Legs
Tan legs with Dark Blue 'skirt' or loincloth printing, golden knee armor with lion motifs, and white claw/toe printing on the feet.
Accessories
Typically comes with a Red fabric cape (missing in image), a Valious sword (built from multiple parts), and occasionally a Chi shield-staff.
Color Scheme
A palette of Tan, Bright Orange, Dark Blue, and Gold, representing the regal and sun-themed colors of the Lion Tribe.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing including toe claws, intricate loincloth patterns, and precise alignment of the muscular chest details and Chi harness.
Variants
Several variants exist, including Fire-Chi Laval (loc093), Royal Armor Laval (loc060), and a version without the cape. This is the standard original variant.
Condition Notes
The Dark Blue printing on the legs is prone to scratching. The rubbery mane piece can attract dust or suffer from 'tacky' degradation if stored in heat. Check for cracks in the Tan torso.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $7.00 USD. New/Mint: $10.00 - $15.00 USD. Value is heavily dependent on the presence of the red cape.
Price (New)
He was included in sets ranging from the $14.99 Razcal's Glider to the $119.99 Lion CHI Temple.
Compatible Sets
70005 Laval's Royal Fighter, 70010 Lion CHI Temple, 70000 Razcal's Glider, and 30250 Ewar's Acro-Fighter polybag.
Character Background
Laval is the prince of the Lion Tribe and the primary protagonist of the Legends of Chima series, tasked with protecting the balance of CHI in the land of Chima.
Design Notes
The molded mane piece was a significant design milestone, moving away from standard hairpieces to create a more 'anthropomorphic animal' silhouette.
Similar Minifigures
Lagravis (loc011), Leonidas (loc003), and Lennox (loc002) share the Lion Tribe aesthetic and color palette.
Collectibility
Moderate. Chima collectors highly value the main cast, though the high volume of Laval figures produced keeps the price relatively accessible.
History
Chima was introduced as a successor to Ninjago in 2013, though Ninjago's unexpected popularity led to both themes running concurrently. Laval was the 'poster boy' for this era.
Interesting Facts
Despite being an animal character, Laval's head uses a standard minifigure head mold rather than a unique creature head like Star Wars or TMNT figures.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside Cragger (Crocodile Prince) to recreate their rivalry. Use a translucent light blue 'Chi' brick as a centerpiece for the display.
Modification Potential
The torso and legs are popular for custom 'Barbarian' or 'Gladiator' fantasy minifigures due to the muscular tan printing.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential 2010s-era minifigure that showcases LEGO's push into highly detailed original IP characters. Excellent printing and a unique silhouette via the mane piece.