Pythor P. Chumsworth
njo041 · Ninjago
Ninjago: Rise of the Snakes · 2012 (First released in the Epic Dragon Battle set 9450 during the first wave of Ninjago)
Figure ID
njo041
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2012 (First released in the Epic Dragon Battle set 9450 during the first wave of Ninjago)
Rarity
Very Rare. This figure was exclusive to a single high-priced set (9450) and represents the primary antagonist of season 1, making it highly sought after by collectors.
Head
Unique elongated rubberized white snake head with purple tribal markings, printing on the top and sides, and blue eyes with red pupils. It features an integrated neck piece that attaches to the torso.
Torso
Black torso with front printing showing a purple and gold sash/robe design over scales. Note: The arms are black with black hands. It often wears a red snake-neck chest armor piece.
Legs
He utilizes a unique black molded snake tail element (98585) with gold and red printing on the front to represent His Anacondrai heritage.
Accessories
Includes a Pearl Gold curved blade (Shamshir). The figure in the image is wearing a trans-neon orange snake-head shoulder armor piece which was standard for this variant.
Color Scheme
Primary colors are White and Black, accented with Purple tribal tattoos, Gold trim, and Red highlights.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the head, torso, and tail. The continuity of the purple markings on the white rubber head mold is particularly intricate for its era.
Variants
There are three primary variants: this original version (njo041), a translucent purple 'Ghost' version (njo116), and a white mini-figure scale 'Tournament' version (njo200).
Condition Notes
The white rubber head piece is prone to dirt collection and permanent staining. The tail piece connection to the torso can become loose over time, and the gold printing on the tail is susceptible to scratching.
Estimated Value
Current market value is approximately $50 - $80 USD for a used complete figure; New/Mint condition can exceed $100 - $120 USD.
Price (New)
Originally available in set 9450 which retailed for $119.99 USD in 2012.
Compatible Sets
Set 9450 (Epic Dragon Battle).
Character Background
Pythor is the last remaining member of the Anacondrai tribe. He served as the primary antagonist of the Rise of the Snakes arc, eventually releasing the Great Devourer.
Design Notes
This was one of the first Ninjago figures to use the unique elongated snake neck/head mold, which remained a standout design for the theme's first two years.
Similar Minifigures
Other Serpentine Generals like Skales (njo034), Fangtom (njo049), Acidicus (njo061), and Skalidor (njo066).
Collectibility
Extremely high. He is the most iconic villain of the Ninjago franchise and his first appearance is a 'holy grail' for many theme-specific collectors.
History
Debuted in 2012; Pythor has reappeared in multiple seasons of the show and has received different minifigure iterations following his 'bleaching' by the Great Devourer.
Interesting Facts
The 'P' in Pythor P. Chumsworth stays as a mystery, though he is the only Serpentine leader with a surname. His design was intended to look more skeletal and ancient than other snakes.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed on a 2x4 black baseplate or inside a Ninjago-themed villain showcase. Light with indirect cool-white LEDs to prevent the white rubber from yellowing.
Modification Potential
The head piece is a single solid part, making customization difficult without painting. The tail is often swapped into MOCs for other snake NPCs.
Overall Assessment
A masterpiece of early Ninjago design. Excellent quality and high investment stability. Rated 9.5/10 for desirability.