Original ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ cover art anticipated to break auction records

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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The iconic original illustration gracing the cover of J.K. Rowling’s 1997 masterpiece, “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” is poised to make history as it heads to auction next month, with experts predicting a staggering price tag of up to $600,000.

This valuation sets a new benchmark for Harry Potter memorabilia, according to the auction house Sotheby’s.

Crafted by the talented author and illustrator Thomas Taylor, the watercolor artwork captures the essence of the beloved protagonist, Harry Potter, donning his trademark round glasses and bearing the iconic lightning bolt scar.

Depicted on the verge of embarking on his journey to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry aboard the famed Hogwarts Express, the image has become synonymous with the magic and wonder of Rowling’s wizarding world.

While Taylor’s creation adorned numerous international editions of the novel, it notably graced the covers of various translated versions, excluding the U.S. release titled “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.”

Originally sold at Sotheby’s London auction house in 2001, the illustration fetched an impressive £85,750 (approximately $106,000), quadrupling its estimated value at the time.

Now, more than two decades later, the artwork is set to surpass its previous record, potentially clinching the title for the most expensive Harry Potter-related item ever auctioned.

The current record-holder for a Harry Potter collectible is an unsigned first edition of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,” which commanded a staggering $421,000 at Heritage Auctions in Dallas, Texas, back in 2021.

Crafted by Taylor in a mere two days when he was just 23 years old, the cover art bears testament to his exceptional talent and Rowling’s vision. Remarkably, at the time of its creation, Taylor was working in a bookstore.

Scheduled for auction on June 26 at Sotheby’s New York, alongside an array of other esteemed works of English and American Literature, the original illustration promises to captivate collectors and fans alike.

Subsequently, on July 10, Sotheby’s will present one of Rowling’s handwritten original manuscripts for her 2007 publication, “The Tales of Beedle the Bard,” further enriching the allure of this literary event.

These prized artifacts will be on public display at Sotheby’s New York from June 21 to 25, offering enthusiasts a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling’s literary legacy.

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow