An extraordinary typescript of The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, featuring the author’s own handwritten corrections and sketches, will soon be available for purchase at the price of $1.25 million. Regarded as a “literary treasure” by rare book dealers, this unique artifact provides a glimpse into Saint-Exupéry’s creative process for one of the world’s most beloved and widely translated works.
Published in 1943 amidst the turmoil of World War II, The Little Prince tells the story of a young traveler who gains profound insights while journeying between planets. Sammy Jay, Senior Literature Specialist at Peter Harrington Rare Books, emphasizes the rarity of such annotated editions, noting that this particular typescript stands out as the “most exceptional” he has encountered.
Adding to its allure, the typescript contains two original pencil sketches by Saint-Exupéry, including an early version of the novella’s iconic final scene of the prince returning to his home planet. Saint-Exupéry tragically disappeared in 1944 during a military flight over the Mediterranean, making surviving drafts like this one all the more valuable.
Recently released from a private collection, the typescript will be on display for potential buyers at the Abu Dhabi Art fair from November 20 to 24.
