Peter Harrington Rare Books has announced that a rare typescript of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's cherished tale, The Little Prince, will be up for sale at an astronomical price of $1.25 million. This typescript, one of only three known copies to exist, was created during the author's time in exile in New York in the 1940s, away from Nazi-occupied France. The manuscript boasts handwritten notes, edits, and illustrations by the author himself, adding to its unique charm and value.
The typescript will be showcased during the Abu Dhabi Art Festival in the UAE next month. Sammy Jay, a senior specialist from Peter Harrington Rare Books, emphasized the rarity of such manuscripts and expressed excitement over its available history. The manuscript includes sketches of the Little Prince and retains marks of Saint-Exupéry’s creative process, including a noteworthy quote: "It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; the essential is invisible to the eye."
Saint-Exupéry, an acclaimed aviator, penned the story during World War II. Unfortunately, after returning to Europe for a mission, he vanished, leaving the fate of both him and the Little Prince cloaked in mystery. This, combined with the book's enduring popularity and its status as a global literary treasure, sets the stage for what could be a momentous sale as collectors and institutions vie for ownership of this piece of literary history. Observers believe a museum or library beyond Europe may acquire it, further emphasizing the global importance of The Little Prince.
The typescript will be showcased during the Abu Dhabi Art Festival in the UAE next month. Sammy Jay, a senior specialist from Peter Harrington Rare Books, emphasized the rarity of such manuscripts and expressed excitement over its available history. The manuscript includes sketches of the Little Prince and retains marks of Saint-Exupéry’s creative process, including a noteworthy quote: "It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; the essential is invisible to the eye."
Saint-Exupéry, an acclaimed aviator, penned the story during World War II. Unfortunately, after returning to Europe for a mission, he vanished, leaving the fate of both him and the Little Prince cloaked in mystery. This, combined with the book's enduring popularity and its status as a global literary treasure, sets the stage for what could be a momentous sale as collectors and institutions vie for ownership of this piece of literary history. Observers believe a museum or library beyond Europe may acquire it, further emphasizing the global importance of The Little Prince.
