Final Report Part 1: Eye of Agamotto

Final Report Part 1: Eye of Agamotto

Project Overview

For my final project, I chose to recreate the Eye of Agamotto, a mystical artifact from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, most notably worn by Doctor Strange. My goal was to create an artifact that blends magical and steampunk aesthetics while incorporating wearable functionality and visual storytelling. This artifact is designed not just as a prop, but as a personal expression of creativity and appreciation for design-driven fantasy artifacts.

Inspirations and Adaptations

The Eye of Agamotto is deeply rooted in pop culture and fantasy. Its original design in the Marvel films portrays it as an ancient, powerful artifact that holds the Time Stone. I drew direct visual inspiration from the version featured in Doctor Strange (2016). The layered, circular casing and ancient design language were key visual references for my version.

For the base 3D model, I sourced a design from Thingiverse, a platform that allows creators to share 3D-printable files. I modified and scaled the design to better fit my goals and proportions. I do not claim credit for the original 3D model and have provided proper attribution below:

• Eye of Agamotto STL by  https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1929165

Artistic Vision and Aesthetic

The Eye of Agamotto, as I envisioned it, would merge a steampunk aesthetic—defined by mechanical layers and handcrafted detail—with the mystical energy of the Marvel universe. My artistic goals included:

• A strong silhouette and detailed surface pattern
• A wearable format that made it feel like a real talisman
• A dark, mysterious finish to reflect the magical qualities of the artifact

I chose to leave the 3D-printed shell black, directly from the printer, rather than painting it. The matte black PLA gave it a shadowy, arcane vibe that I actually found to be visually striking and consistent with my aesthetic. I did sand the surface lightly to remove minor imperfections and give it a smoother touch.

One of the most exciting features of this model is its built-in mechanical mechanism that allows it to open and close—just like in the films. The outer shell rotates apart in two halves to reveal the center of the Eye. Even though I haven’t yet added an LED, this physical interaction adds to the realism and presence of the artifact. The mechanism feels smooth and secure, and adds a dynamic, time-based element to the design.

Specifications

• Size: Approximately palm-sized (4–5 inches in length)
• Lighting: No LED yet, but I plan to add a green LED to the center to simulate the glow of the Time Stone
• Wearability: A green string is securely superglued to the casing so I can wear it around my neck
• Finish: Unpainted black PLA with hand-sanded texture
• Function: Decorative and wearable prop with an open/close mechanism

Design Process

After downloading the model from Thingiverse, I scaled it appropriately and printed it using PLA on a BTU 3D printer. Once the print was complete, I sanded the outer shell to clean up minor stringing and to prepare it for potential future paint or finish. While I originally planned to paint the Eye with a brass-like finish, I decided to embrace the stark black look, which surprisingly aligned really well with the mystical aesthetic.

I used superglue to attach a greenstring to the shell, allowing me to wear it as a necklace. This simple addition helped bridge form and function, letting the object become more than just a decorative piece. The fact that it can open and close gives it an interactive quality that reinforces its mystique.

It took 6 hours to 3D print.

 

Initial Sketches and Plans

• The early sketches explored whether to make the Eye light up or open mechanically. I have included a generated mockup I used for inspiration. 
• While I didn’t pursue internal electronics yet, I left room in the design to potentially add a green LED in the center in the future

Embodiment of Aesthetic

My goal with this project was to make something that felt ancient, powerful, and wearable. Even without lights or full functionality, the blackened look, layered design, glowing green string, and the opening mechanism all work together to embody that mystical aesthetic. It looks and feels like a relic with purpose, even if its function is symbolic rather than technological.

Next Steps

Part 2 of this report will describe the actual fabrication steps in more detail, how I assembled the necklace, and any adjustments I make between now and the final presentation. I will also include more photos and possibly a short video demonstration.

Citations:
(1) 3D Model: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1929165
(2) Marvel Studios, Doctor Strange, 2016