The typescript was produced by Saint-Exupéry while escaping the horrors of Nazi-occupied France during World War II. Literature specialist Sammy Jay from Peter Harrington Rare Books has emphasized that this sale is a rare occurrence. The beloved story, originally penned in French, was first published in 1943 and has become one of the most translated children's books ever.
After its completion, Saint-Exupéry, an accomplished pilot, embarked on a mission for the Free French air force but tragically disappeared during his last flight, leaving the world with the mystery of his untimely fate. The enchanting tale features a pilot who, while stranded in a desert, meets the Little Prince from outer space.
This particular typescript is remarkable not just because of its rarity, but due to the intimate glimpses into the author's creative process it provides. It showcases evidence of Saint-Exupéry's journey—complete with cigarette burns and personal annotations throughout the text.
An intriguing highlight of this typescript is believed to be the early rendition of one of the book's most significant quotes: "It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; the essential is invisible to the eye."
Only three such manuscripts are known to exist; the original handwritten version is preserved in New York, while others reside in France’s national library and Texas' Harry Ransom Center. This third typescript remained hidden in a private collection in France and is now ready for public bidding. The upcoming sale at the Abu Dhabi Art Festival presents a unique opportunity for institutions or collectors outside Europe to acquire this piece, reflecting its global significance as part of the world’s literary heritage.
After its completion, Saint-Exupéry, an accomplished pilot, embarked on a mission for the Free French air force but tragically disappeared during his last flight, leaving the world with the mystery of his untimely fate. The enchanting tale features a pilot who, while stranded in a desert, meets the Little Prince from outer space.
This particular typescript is remarkable not just because of its rarity, but due to the intimate glimpses into the author's creative process it provides. It showcases evidence of Saint-Exupéry's journey—complete with cigarette burns and personal annotations throughout the text.
An intriguing highlight of this typescript is believed to be the early rendition of one of the book's most significant quotes: "It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; the essential is invisible to the eye."
Only three such manuscripts are known to exist; the original handwritten version is preserved in New York, while others reside in France’s national library and Texas' Harry Ransom Center. This third typescript remained hidden in a private collection in France and is now ready for public bidding. The upcoming sale at the Abu Dhabi Art Festival presents a unique opportunity for institutions or collectors outside Europe to acquire this piece, reflecting its global significance as part of the world’s literary heritage.
