The first representation of Harry Potter in watercolor, made by the artist Thomas Taylor for the book cover harry potter and the Philosopher’s Stonewas sold at an auction Sotheby’s for $1.9 million, tripling the initial high estimate of $600,000. The auction, which took place this Wednesday, involved four bidders during a fierce telephone competition that lasted ten minutes. This is the highest price reached to date for an object related to the iconic character created by the British writer. JK Rowling in 1997, as reported Sotheby’s.
Thomas Taylor, who was barely 23 years old when he painted the watercolor, expressed surprise at the impact that the saga of the young magician would have. The success of the book, which has been translated into 80 languages and has sold more than 500 million copiesexceeds all expectations. The original work, previously auctioned in London in 2001, had sold for 85,750 pounds (about 112 thousand dollars).
The watercolor, which shows Harry Potter as a boy with glasses, brown hair, and a red and yellow striped scarf, he has become an iconic image since the series’ first publication. This work was put up for sale by Rodney P. Swantkoa collector who included it in a lot with European and American literary illustrations from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Sotheby’s underlined the historical and cultural importance of watercolor, which has transcended the field of children’s literature to become a cultural symbol. “The relevance of this image, which has remained in the collective imagination of millions of readers and viewers around the world, undoubtedly contributed to the high price achieved,” highlighted a spokesperson for the auction house.
That high price reflects not only the artistic value of the watercolor, but also the lasting impact of the work of JK Rowling in popular culture. The saga of Harry Potterwhich began as a series of children’s books, has evolved into one of the most successful and beloved franchises worldwide, with film adaptations and Broadway runs.
In this recent auction, the intense competition among telephone bidders evidences the continued interest and high demand for franchise-related items. Harry Potter in the art market. This trend reinforces the growing value of the collection of artistic objects derived from the saga.
“I never imagined it would have such an impact,” commented Taylor, reflecting on his work in creating the first image of Harry Potter that appeared on the cover of the book. His work has established itself as a lasting visual reference in popular culture since it was published in 1997.
The sale of this illustration not only underlines the artistic and sentimental value of the work of Taylorbut also the global influence of Harry Potter in various generations. This literary phenomenon has transcended its origin to become an integral part of contemporary popular culture.
Source: EFE
[Fotos: EFE/ Alicia Sánchez]
