An original model of the iconic alien created for Steven Spielberg's 1982 classic film E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial. - Alien," is up for auction in New York and is expected to fetch up to $900,000.

Created by Oscar-winning special effects artist Carlo Rambaldi, the model is one of three used in the film, and is the one that appears in the wardrobe scene when E.T. is hiding among a host of stuffed animals.

The model is 91.4 cm tall and is from the personal collection of Rambaldi, a pioneer in animatronics who died in 2012.

The starting price for the online sale, which ends April 3, is $500,000. The estimated price is $600,000 to $900,000.

"This model epitomizes the craftsmanship of an era before CGI took hold, a nostalgic and iconic part of Hollywood history as compelling as the stories themselves," said Cassandra Hatton, vice chairman of Sotheby's.

E.T.'s model can perform 150 different movements, such as frowning or stretching her neck.

The auction also includes other items from the Italian artist's collection, including two of the sandworm models used in David Lynch's film Dune.

Other items from the Italian artist's collection are included in the auction, including two of the sandworm models used in David Lynch's film Dune. | BGNES, AFP