Yup. This is the nature of something like this. While mass produced, they are still given quite a bit of hand-crafted attention. It's to be expected that variances will occur and anyone in this hobby (that wants to maintain his sanity and good humor) should strive for a liberal tolerance in this area. Not saying to accept 'bad' paint apps- especially on a critical area like the portrait- but it helps to keep things in perspective and look at the overall statement and not get so hung up on little imperfections. This is one reason I haven't re-sold anything yet as I dread getting a hyper critical buyer who won't be able to see anything but the few invariable millimeter sized imperfections.
I create art for a living and it's extremely frustrating to see people hold up the finished piece close to their face and focus on a stray line or bit of overspray. Step back and take the thing in as a whole statement...not just a collection of little details that may not stand up to intense scrutiny.
And yes, my base I would classify as having a heavy rust effect application. Looks fine to me though.
OK here's the best I can do for pics. All quite large.
first up, the left hand. This is about the most speckling there is on the whole figure and the only area you can actually see it from about a foot or two away.
...and the right hand. Fine spotting is more visible in person than this pic because of the flash...but the spots are very tiny. I would have had no problem with the entire costume being covered with this.
in comparison, here's the head and chest. The upper arrow is one of the only spots to be found main trunk. Because of the angle, it's not even visible from my normal viewing distance of about 3' away.
The other arrow points to what is more common on my figure- rougher paint apps to edges. Based on the ComicCon photos, I fully expected to see more of this on these. I'm actually somewhat surprised that this isn't more extensive than it is. Like the speckling, I can easily accept it for the most part as it contributes to a weathered, lived in, patina.
You can see more of this on the skirt.
Because of the lighting in the room and position I have it, the brush strokes on the silver center buckle and some of the edges in the purple stick out as 'flaws' more than anything else. To be honest, I probably would have preferred a tighter, smoother paint job with speckling over it, than no speckles and brush strokes...but it is what it is ...
Hell Yes!