A rare typescript of "The Little Prince," authored by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry and known to be one of only three in existence, is set to go on the auction block with a staggering price tag of $1.25 million. This significant piece of literary history was created in New York during Saint-Exupéry’s exile from Nazi-occupied France in the 1940s. The typescript features unique handwritten notes and illustrations, offering an intimate glimpse into the creative process of the beloved author, who penned the book while living in exile. The manuscript will be available for purchase at the Abu Dhabi Art Festival in November.
Rare Typescript of "The Little Prince" Expected to Fetch $1.25 Million at Upcoming Auction
Rare Typescript of "The Little Prince" Expected to Fetch $1.25 Million at Upcoming Auction
A typed manuscript of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's iconic children's book, "The Little Prince," will soon be offered for sale, highlighting its rich literary history.
The upcoming auction presents a rare opportunity for collectors and institutions to own a significant piece of literary heritage. Peter Harrington Rare Books, which is handling the sale, describes the typescript as an "extremely rare event" that reflects the author's journey. Only two other typescripts are known to exist, with one housed in France's national library and another in the Harry Ransom Center in Texas. The manuscript, according to literature specialist Sammy Jay, offers unique insights into Saint-Exupéry's thoughts, featuring personal annotations and sketches, including an early version of one of the book's most famous lines: "It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; the essential is invisible to the eye."
After being in a private collection for decades, this manuscript is the first of its kind to be publicly available. Peter Harrington Rare Books acquired the typescript at the start of 2024 and has undertaken extensive research to prepare it for the auction. The anticipation surrounding its sale reflects the global status of "The Little Prince," one of the most translated works in literary history, which has captured the hearts of millions worldwide since its publication in 1943. Jay expressed excitement about the auction and the possibility that the typescript could end up in a museum or library outside of Europe, acknowledging its cultural significance.
With its extraordinary price and storied background, the typescript of "The Little Prince" promises to become a prized possession for whoever secures it at the Abu Dhabi Art Festival.
After being in a private collection for decades, this manuscript is the first of its kind to be publicly available. Peter Harrington Rare Books acquired the typescript at the start of 2024 and has undertaken extensive research to prepare it for the auction. The anticipation surrounding its sale reflects the global status of "The Little Prince," one of the most translated works in literary history, which has captured the hearts of millions worldwide since its publication in 1943. Jay expressed excitement about the auction and the possibility that the typescript could end up in a museum or library outside of Europe, acknowledging its cultural significance.
With its extraordinary price and storied background, the typescript of "The Little Prince" promises to become a prized possession for whoever secures it at the Abu Dhabi Art Festival.
