In brief
A rare typescript of The Little Prince, one of the globe's most translated stories, will soon be auctioned for a staggering $1.25 million at the Abu Dhabi Art Festival. Created by author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry during his exile from Nazi-occupied France in the 1940s, this manuscript is one of only three known copies. Notably, the typescript features Saint-Exupéry’s handwritten notes and sketches, adding a personal touch to its historical significance.
According to Sammy Jay, senior literature specialist at Peter Harrington Rare Books, the manuscript represents an exceedingly rare find. Initially written in French, Le Petit Prince was published in 1943 and has since sold millions of copies worldwide. Saint-Exupéry, an accomplished aviator, vanished during a reconnaissance mission for the Free French air force; his disappearance remains a mystery. The tale itself narrates the enchanting adventures of a pilot meeting a small boy, the Little Prince, lost in the desert.This typescript, lacking inscriptions made for friends who received the other known versions, remained in a private French collection until its recent auction opportunity. Jay describes its intimate nature, citing annotations and doodles that illustrate the author's creative process. This artifact, featuring early versions of iconic lines, also comes with two sketches of the Little Prince, one being a draft for the published book's final illustration.Acknowledged as part of global literary heritage, the typescript's potential sale to a museum or library outside of Europe would further underscore its importance on the world stage. Peter Harrington Rare Books has meticulously researched and prepared the typescript for its eagerly anticipated auction, revealing the profound connection between the author and his cherished narrative.As the auction approaches, the literary world awaits what could be an unprecedented transaction for this piece of artistic and historical significance.
